Distance learning has been around for a long time in the education arena. The current pandemic situation is revealing new layers of challenges as well as opportunities in this ever evolving zone. Schools and universities around the world have temporarily closed and rapidly switched from on-campus, face-to-face schooling to distance education.
Distance learning has now established itself as a tried-and-tested technique for fulfilling demand and supporting a wide range of learning groups. Accessibility, equity, quality, and financial issues have all been overcome through innovative educational delivery.
Online education is no longer a choice; it is a necessity
All educational organizations must juggle various online educational techniques and endeavor to make better use of technology. Many institutions all across the globe have totally digitalized their activities, recognizing the critical need in this situation. In the middle of the chaos, online learning is rising as the winner of the games. As a result, improving the quality of online education is critical at this point.
Limitations of distance learning
Distance learning necessitates a range of skills and obligations. Moreover, the connection is less personal, less centered on one-on-one interactions and places a greater priority to the teacher’s function. Other key concerns include lack of enthusiasm, solitude, minimal interactions, absence of emotions and body language.
For educators, the concerns include routine scheduling, directing the instructional process, functioning as an instructor and a coordinator, follow-up and supervision.
Advantages of online learning during the pandemic
This pandemic will usher in a new era for online learning, allowing individuals to consider the positive aspects of e-learning innovations. This is a period when there is a lot of room for new discoveries and digital advancements to emerge.
Instructors can use technology and create a variety of customizable approaches to help students comprehend more. The use of eLearning will put both the instructor and the students to the test. It will help learners improve their problem solving and critical thinking skills while nurturing adaptability and dynamism.
Digital learning startups have a lot of potential to drive fundamental changes in practically every area of education. Additionally, rising popularity of online learning presents an incredible potential for the startups to impact the education sector through technical innovation.
You can study or teach from anywhere in the globe with online education. This eliminates the need to travel from one location to another or adhere to a strict timetable. You not only end up saving time, but also your money.
Here are some guidelines for students and instructors to take into account as they move forward with distance learning during the covid-19 pandemic.
Establish the right learning objectives and approaches
It is unfair to expect teachers and students to follow their old practices today. Establish appropriate learning objectives for the students to attain and for the instructors to coordinate in the present situation. Devise a strategy for them to achieve these objectives while the progress is monitored.
Develop learning initiatives that are appropriate for a distance educational setting
Try to prevent the arduous and inefficient trap of attempting to replicate each educational process in the distance learning environment. Provide distance learning solutions that increase student engagement while removing obstacles.
Make learning more resilient
Break the learning process into manageable portions. Make sure everyone knows what to expect when it comes to online engagement. To keep students motivated and moving forward, give instant feedback using online knowledge assessments, remarks on interactive works, and conversation. Establish a social touch by using virtual meetings.
Take care of the emotional cost
Schedule breaks on a consistent basis. Make fitness a priority. Maintain a consistent sleep routine. Whenever possible, keep distractions to a minimum. Schedule daily and weekly goals for yourself. Find time for socializing, even if it’s only online.
