BY AFSHAN TAYYAB
In the present age of science and technology, online learning is considered more effective than traditional learning due to its convenient and flexible nature.
The importance of online learning becomes clearer because all the educational institutions are closed so as to enforce social distancing recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Under the circumstances, online learning remains the only option to compensate for the academic loss of our learners. The online method has emerged as the best alternate of traditional learning. Most importantly, the effectiveness of online learning is on the rise in the present situation of COVID -19 outbreaks for several reasons including its 24/7 access, flexible and cost-effective nature as well etc.
The rationale of online learning is recognized by the majority of education community members in this critical time of COVID-19 pandemic due to its capability to engage the learners. In addition to monetary relief, online learning plays a vital role in helping individuals when it comes to explore new avenues and find alternates. Both learners and educators find online learning more convenient as there is no restriction of time and space to continue the journey of learning in the lockdown period.
Likewise, majority of the learners and educators find online learning the most time-efficient and flexible to gain necessary knowledge and skills which they need to become globally competent.
It was feared that traditional learning had potential risk of spreading COVID-19 because of possible physical interaction while commuting to the educational institution and then staying there. In the recent years, online learning has offered individuals an opportunity to benefit from online professional development and continuing education at their own convenience and capacity.
Additionally, due to the busy schedule and limited resources majority of educators and learners avoid traditional learning which is inflexible as well as time-bound and expensive.
Furthermore, to deal with the academic challenges that are created by this pandemic, online learning ensures the familiarity with technology e.g. computer, laptop, iPhone etc. for both the learners and educators as the whole process of learning is technologically-based and that is not applicable in traditional learning.
Online learning enhances the technical skills of both the learners and educators in order to make them technology smart so that they can achieve the long term goals in their academic and professional life. Online learning has become need of the hour in the face of global challenges in the field of education.
There is a consensus among all the stakeholders that online learning is as effective and convenient as the traditional in the deadly situation of COVID-19 pandemic. It goes without saying that online education is a blessing and silver lining in the darkness of COVID-19 cloud.
