Introduction
There has been a contentious discussion about online courses and their effect on traditional education over the past few years. Online education is transforming traditional education in ways that have never been seen before. Delivering a series of class sessions online constitutes an online education. Students access online material using a variety of devices, including laptop computers and smart phones. Online courses offer a lot of possibilities and advantages, but they also have drawbacks. The benefits and drawbacks of attending online classes will be covered in the essay.
Benefits of Online Courses
One benefit of attending courses online is flexibility. Online courses are an alternative for students who don't have time to attend traditional classes. Online classes are best for full-time workers because they have the chance of taking classes in the evening or over the weekend. Furthermore, learners have the opportunity of mixing online classes with the traditional formal education.
Another good element about online classes is convenience. Most of the students favor doing their classes at home. Taking classes from the comfort of their houses eliminates travelling and accommodation cost always associated with the traditional system.
Drawbacks of Online Courses
One of the major shortcomings of online classes is reduced social interaction. Even though online learners always interact with their peers and teachers on the web, it does not replace the traditional face-to-face learning. Regular social interaction with classmates during classes enhances the learning experience. Students interact directly with instructors and seek clarification on issues not understood. Additionally, students work in groups to improve their understanding.
Disciplined learners gain a lot from the flexible and convenient nature of internet education. However, the absence of a formal structure is a disadvantage for undisciplined students. Lack of set time for class, interaction with teachers and students is a recipe for laziness.
Conclusion
Because of the outlined shortcomings and benefits of online classes, curriculum developers should strike a middle ground between the two. They must try to optimize the advantages of each method and minimize the negative impacts.
