The COVID-19 pandemic has not left the education market unaffected. Currently, almost all classes are held remotely. Schools and universities have been quick to adapt their offerings to current conditions. Is it worth taking advantage of it?
What do you need to know about studying online?
Studying online is not new. Even before the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, some universities were offering this model of study to their students, although – it is worth noting – it was not particularly popular. Today, remote learning is a reality. How does online study differ from traditional classes? High school or university graduates submit their documents for their chosen courses online and then attend classes via the web. What are online classes and lectures like?
Universities have special e-learning platforms. It is through these that students have contact with lecturers. The platforms allow interaction between students and lecturers, so that they can exchange views, clarify misunderstandings or share material. Instructors also have the opportunity to check whether students are actively participating in classes and whether they are prepared for them – it is possible, for example, to question selected individuals, which can replace other forms of knowledge verification.
Advantages of distance learning
Studying online is the ideal solution for busy people who want to save on commuting to university premises. Depending on the mode of study chosen, you can save up to tens of hours per week in this way. This is one of the main advantages of classes conducted remotely. Other frequently mentioned advantages are:
- Financial savings. Studying online means no transport expenses. Students can also forgo dormitory or rented accommodation and return to their family home;
- 24-hour access to materials. It is possible to listen to the lecture again at any time. Also, supplementary materials can be downloaded by students at any time, long after the class is over;
- Flexibility. Studying online offers the opportunity to balance work and study. Students can consult the material discussed in class or lecture at any time.
Choosing an online degree programme can be beneficial for graduates wishing to combine studying two courses. Those with time-consuming hobbies should also be happy to arrange their schedules themselves.
Disadvantages of studying online
Studying is much more than just deepening your knowledge of your chosen field – it is also student life. There is no denying that studying remotely makes it difficult to make new friends. As a rule, students limit their contacts with classmates to subject-related issues. Other disadvantages of studying online are:
- The need to maintain self-discipline. This is difficult when you don’t have to commute to class, scrupulously take notes of the lecturer’s words or even get out of bed. Access to materials at any time is not conducive to developing the habit of regular study;
- Lack of practical classes. A feature of some courses, for example, are laboratory classes. Online study naturally makes these impossible – students therefore only acquire theoretical knowledge;
- Technical problems. Unfortunately, not all e-learning platforms work reliably. There can also be problems with the internet. Technical problems are particularly troublesome during credits or discussions with the lecturer.
Some lecturers are older and not confident in the digital environment. It can be difficult to make contact with these lecturers. This will be a problem for those who are at the thesis stage.
Studying online – is it worth it?
Studying remotely has both advantages and disadvantages. Today, however, only this mode of study is available. This does not mean that online study is inferior to full-time or distance learning studies – it is a full-fledged study programme that leads to a diploma, professional or academic degree. The program is adapted to the technical possibilities, but lecturers still have the right to require students to be present in class and prepared in a given subject area. Students are also bound by all examinations, which may be written or oral.
Although distance studying requires more discipline, it is a way to improve one’s competencies and, in the future, find a better job. By attending classes, the student has the chance to gain knowledge, deepen their interests and acquire practical skills that will be useful in their professional life. It is also a more affordable solution, as it does not require daily commuting to university.