Due to the recent Pandemic, we all got introduced to virtual learning through various softwares and tools. Even though we were pushed into this forcefully, since we were out of choices, many good outcomes have emerged out of this. Like visiting the school/college campus had its own pros and cons, similarly virtual learning has its own pros and cons. However, due to virtual learning a lot of new doors have opened up for students as well as adults. Virtual classrooms have now become the preferred choice of many young professionals as well. Hence its very important to understand both the advantages as well as disadvantages of virtual learning before getting on board. Here are a few pros and cons that we think might be relevant :
Pros:
- Flexibility:
The biggest advantage of virtual learning is the flexibility that it provides to its users, in terms of time and place. You can learn from wherever you want and whenever you want. You don’t have to carry those heavy bags and physically go to a specific place, institute or school, all you need is a laptop and a wifi connection and you are good to go. Also you don’t have to be necessarily of a certain age or enrolled in a university. You can just sign – up with an online learning platform and you can begin learning. Virtual learning can also be used as a second teacher and as well as any extra help that you need along with your regular schooling. Eg.The Fliplearn app is one such platform that enables its users to learn remotely. It has 19000+ Academic videos that help the students grasp the concepts easily and retain them for a longer period of time.
- Variety:
The second biggest advantage of virtual learning is the variety that it offers to its students. Due to virtual learning you can easily ditch the traditional way of education and study for 2 degrees at the same time. You can also go for learning certificates or short term diploma courses. This proves to be very helpful for students who are not very sure about their career path and need more options to explore. All these various courses can be available to you while you study at home.
- Uniform:
Creates uniformity in the teaching. The topics and materials taught are uniform across the platform.
- 24×7 Availability:
E-learning is available at any time, enabling students to clear doubts and reach out to certain 24hour helplines to solve their queries.
Cons:
- Lack of social and emotional growth:
Since virtual learning has been introduced recently, we cannot exactly point out the disadvantages, however this can be seen as one of the possible disadvantages. Virtual learning can result in isolation and thereby result in a lack of development of emotional and social skills amongst students.
To avoid this the institutions can arrange a specific time slot for kids to interact with their friends, play games, team exercises, etc.
- Lack of Physical Activity:
Virtual learning requires you to sit in front of your screen for long periods of time which can compromise your physical activity and your overall health as well. Not to mention the strain it brings on your eyes and damage it causes to your eyesight due to the continuous exposure.
To avoid lack of physical activity in the case of students, every session/online lecture can start or end with a small physical activity that can be done in a small area. Also, one can ensure to get up from their seats at specific intervals, walk around and then continue. Remember to look away from the screen at regular intervals as well and keep hydrated.
- Connectivity:
Just one of those days when your internet decides to act all stubborn and not work. This might be an issue when you attend a live class or orientation or examination.
One can ensure they have ample data on their devices and are sitting near a spot where the wifi signal is stronger or in close proximity of that spot. Many apps also allow users to download their material offline so that they can have access to it from anywhere, even while travelling or during power outages.
