Technology has been an integral part of daily living for many years. Likewise, the traditional classroom experience has flourished for generations. However, educators developed distance education to complement learning for disadvantaged students.
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Covid-19 left a lot in its wake, including calls for replacing traditional classes. Institutions closed down, and the face-to-face education of over 1.6 billion students was interrupted. Many schools adopted distance learning to combat the pandemic effect. But with the worst behind us, could distance learning replace traditional schools?
The Difference Between Regular Schooling and Distance Education
Traditional learning occurs in a classroom setting. It involves using conventional learning tools like pens, books, and boards. As a result, the modality is straightforward. The teacher stands in front of the classroom to deliver lectures. Likewise, students assume a more passive role. They receive lectures and assignments that reinforce learning. But looming deadlines make it hard to balance academic, personal, and social schedules.
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In contrast, distance education involves learning through different websites. It is held in an online environment via the Internet. It further overcomes the adversities associated with the traditional classroom. Distance learning impacts the same knowledge and information. However, it is technology-driven and agile for all participants. So, is it an alternative to regular schooling?
Distance Education vs. Regular Education
The two learning models have various comparison points. Examine them below:
Flexibility and Ease of Use
One of the benefits of distance learning is flexibility. Undergraduates learn at their pace and convenience. In other words, they learn and engage in other activities. A regular class often occurs in the morning, from 8 am to 4 pm. It is fixed and does not respect schedules.
Apart from this, college students must be present physically. But for an online lesson, undergraduates can access learning material from anywhere. If you want, you can take classes at midnight since most of them are pre-recorded. The only disadvantage is that students must have an internet connection.
Access to Resources
Another benefit of distance learning is access to a wide range of courses. In a traditional education system, courses don’t always reflect students’ needs. In contrast, distance learning provides knowledge on various subjects. Learners access multimedia materials, virtual libraries, and interactive lists. On the other hand, regular schooling only provides resources with limited reach. Distance learning offers a more personalized learning experience. Students proceed at their own pace and don’t follow a standardized curriculum.
Social Connection and Interaction
Physical campuses provide various opportunities for face-to-face interaction among students. They join extracurricular events, discussions, and group activities. In addition, university students have direct and immediate access to lecturers. They ask questions and seek feedback in real time. But since online learning relies on virtual communication tools, interaction is limited. Apart from this, they are less personal and immediate.
Cost and Accessibility
Distance education is cheaper than its physical alternative. Students don’t incur transportation and accommodation costs or other schooling expenses. Furthermore, the solution is ideal for people facing geographical, financial, and personal restrictions. You don’t need to commute to classes daily to attend lectures. Hence, you save time and money.
Can Online Learning Replace Physical Schooling?
Both learning approaches have their advantages and disadvantages. However, their choice depends on individual preferences, circumstances, and learning needs. Online learning is suitable for a student who requires flexibility and convenience. They can access educational materials from anywhere without incurring extra costs.
But physical schooling offers a more comprehensive educational outcome. It encourages interaction. Plus, students who cannot afford a device or stable connectivity have to worry about one thing. Ultimately, distance learning should complete regular education, not replace it. The model cannot substitute for the value and benefits that physical schools provide. Furthermore, it does not apply to all sceneries.