Debunking Myths About the Power of Online Learning

Online learning is a component of the education system that transpires over digital platforms. It is popularly termed as e-learning and came into existence in 1998. Since then, it has evolved constantly and resulted in transforming the whole training process.

With the change from traditional learning to online learning, people are speculating whether online learning is effective and productive. Research reveals that e-learning requires 40–60% less time to learn than in a traditional classroom setting because learners can learn at their own pace, access to the course anytime, schedule their time-table and choose concepts to read according to their choice.

Online learning has taken over the education industry owing to the fact that it’s flexible, available, accessible, and convenient but a common concern surfaces regarding the structure of online learning and it’s effectiveness. According to research, 49% of students worldwide stated they had taken an online course in the preceding 12 months.

Here we are debunking some concerning myths and preconceived notions that stand in the way of learners and their dream course. It’s time to bring misconceptions into the light and break the learner’s presupposition.

MYTH -1: Online learning is complicated and incomplete:

Some learners refuse to choose online courses because they assume that online trainers do not complete the course and make concepts complicated, but a quick reality-check states that both online trainers and their courses undergo a rigorous certification process to certify the academic standards. Trainers make the concepts easy and clear with visual presentations and other multimedia elements. Once the trainers enroll for online courses, they have to endure many online learning processes like seminars, tests, assignments, etc to ensure that the particular concept is concluded and coherent for learners.

MYTH-2: Technology and the internet distract learners:

This is a predominant myth that using technology such as computers, laptops, and mobiles with an internet connection is distracting. Social media notifications also shake up their concentration and divide their attention during online classes. Smashing the myth, E-learning increases retention rates by 25% to 60%. This research proves that learners focus more on online class because they are in their comfortable space .The Internet and digital platforms make online learning more engaging, comprehensive, and productive. Learners can turn off notifications during online classes to avoid distractions.

MYTH-3: Online learning is expensive:

Many learners do not sign up for online certificate courses or online training sessions assuming that it is expensive since it involves the internet, laptops, mobile, video conferencing apps. Research reveals that IBM saved approximately $200 million after switching to e-learning. Online learning is pocket friendly and far cheaper than traditional learning. It saves learners traveling, lodging, and hospitality expenses. Learners have a wide choice to learn several courses simultaneously and according to their choice in their comfort zone.

MYTH-4: Not all concepts can be learned online

With disruptive technology, all the concepts can be learned effectively and efficiently. According to research, e-learning enables learners to learn five times more material for every hour of training. Concepts that require practical activities are trained online. Comprehensive accounting questions, experiments, diagrams, physical fitness classes are taught online by using different technological facilities like white-boarding, screen sharing, online boards, etc. A research study revealed that 73% of principals and 64% of teachers are considering using online learning tools. LMS, moodle, blackboard learn, bright space, etc are new ways to make online sessions no different than traditional classroom experience.

MYTH-5: Online courses are easier

The online course is as meticulous as the training course. Online sessions demand equal attention, time, and dedication as a traditional class. It has extra sessions and activities as compared to its traditional counterpart. Online courses often include written assignments, quizzes, reading materials, open online discussions, debates, tests, and interactive activities which makes it more challenging than traditional courses.

A study by the Open University found that producing and providing e-learning courses consumes 90% less energy and produces 85% fewer CO2 emissions per person than face-to-face training.

Additionally, online courses are tracked by the trainers and are evaluated based on active participation during online sessions, written tests, quizzes, and discussions.

Online courses enable learners and trainers to set their own learning pace, balance learners’ personal and learning routines, and hone learner’s existing skills. Through this blog, we hope that we crashed your myths and encouraged you to pursue the course of your dreams.