Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Learning during COVID-19 Pandemic

This report discusses the advantages and disadvantages of online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. It covers the challenges faced by students and teachers, the impact of online learning on education, and the skills required for academic research. The report also provides a comprehensive list of the advantages and potential drawbacks of online learning.

Individual Report

Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................................1
MAIN BODY...................................................................................................................................1
TASK 1............................................................................................................................................1
CONCLUSION................................................................................................................................6
TASK 2............................................................................................................................................6
REFERENCES................................................................................................................................7

INTRODUCTION
The pandemic has caused further shocks to the system as schools have been forced to close
during lockdowns and students and teachers have switched to online teaching and learning. The
report is based on the Covid-19 issues, as, most university classes are delivering online. The
report will cover the advantages and disadvantages of online learning.
MAIN BODY
TASK 1
How students receive higher education has changed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
For a variety of online learning applications, teaching and learning activities that often take place
in face-to-face sessions are now conducted virtually. This essay examines student perceptions or
responses to questions about the difficulties of online learning during the COVID-19 epidemic.
The study included 15 of the students who actively engaged in online learning activities from the
Fundamentals of Education I course. Instructor-led training is offered in online learning.
Instructions can be asynchronous (time-spaced communications like email, Google Forms,
streaming video content, posting lecture notes, etc.) or synchronous (communications where
participants interact within the same timeframe like video conferencing, Zoom, Google Meet,
WebEx, etc.). social media platforms). The methodology for this investigation was qualitative.
Each student's response that is thought to be pertinent to the analysis is gathered, read, and
highlighted by the researcher. The paper offers numerous solutions to the issues that students
encounter when learning online, such as: online learning through face-to-face classes, abilities,
and locating useful online learning resources. One of the most often used phrases since the
breakout is "new normal." Online learning tools are increasingly being used in classrooms, which
has become the new norm. New forms of schooling are now possible thanks to the COVID-19
pandemic. Educational organisations all across the world are looking for online learning
environments to support their students as they further their studies. Online education is at the
centre of the current transformation of education brought about by the new normal. Today,
digital learning is an essential tool for students and academic institutions everywhere. This is an
entirely new type of education that many schools must adopt. Nowadays, online learning is used
for both academic and extracurricular purposes by students. The demand for online education has
increased significantly over the past several months and will continue to increase.
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Online learning offers advantages and disadvantages, just like any educational strategies.
Establishments can create techniques for more effective teaching and guarantee a seamless
learning experience for students by identifying and comprehending these strengths and
shortcomings. There are various advantages and disadvantages of online learning are mentioned
below.
Advantages of online learning
1. Efficiency
With the use of online learning, teachers can instruct pupils efficiently. Podcasts, PDFs,
and other internet learning materials are all things that teachers can incorporate into their lesson
plans. Along with using traditional textbooks, teachers can increase the effectiveness of their
instruction by incorporating online resources into their lesson plans.
2. Accessibility of time and place
One further advantage is the convenience of being able to access lectures online from any
location. In addition, it enables schools to access a bigger student body without being constrained
by regional boundaries. The ability to record, store, and share online lectures for use later on is
also available. The ability to access study materials whenever it's convenient for them is provided
for students. As a result, online learning allows students access to the time and location of the
classroom.
3. Affordable
Another benefit is that online education is reasonably priced. As compared to traditional
schooling, online learning is far less expensive. This is because when they study online, students
are no longer required to cover the costs of their food, transportation, or—most significantly—
their housing. All educational materials and courses are also available online, creating a
paperless learning environment that is more economical and environmentally friendly.
4. Improving student attendance
Due to the flexibility of taking online classes from anywhere, including at home, students
are less likely to miss class.
5. Accommodates different learning styles
Everyone's learning process and learning preferences are unique. Visual learning is
preferred by some students, while aural learning is preferred by others. Similar to this, some
pupils excel in the classroom while others prefer to work alone or in smaller groups because
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huge groups of peers can be distracting. One can tailor an online learning environment with a
wide range of tools and settings. For each student's needs, this is the greatest way to design the
ideal learning environment.
6. It`s convenient.
The greatest benefit of online learning is that it doesn't matter where in the world a person
is located as long as they have a computer and an internet connection. Students have access to
records at any time and from any location. Furthermore, whether for professional or educational
purposes, distance is no longer an impediment to learning. Businesses all across the world,
especially those that offer business training, have benefited enormously from being able to
quickly and anywhere acquire an unlimited number of employees.
7. It's flexible.
It really is that simple: learning becomes less difficult when it is in line with one's
learning preferences and desires. Online learning enables newcomers to learn at their own pace
whether they are students, working people, or workers. In addition to assignment due dates, their
target audience has the ability to autonomously plan their own schedule of learning and decide
when and where to do so. Speaking of "wherein," mobile learning allows users to continue
learning no matter where they are—at school, work, home, on a bus, in a park, etc.—as long as
they have a mobile device on them.
8. It can be customized for different needs.
Online learning goes to considerable measures to guarantee that all learning needs are
satisfied, despite the fact that different people learn in various ways. Online courses are
developed by instructional designers and e-learning specialists to fulfil all learning preferences
and practically any learning style. Whether a learner prefers visual, aural, or kinaesthetic learning
is irrelevant in online learning. To promote learning and fulfil individual needs, a variety of tools
and methods are available.
9. It`s on the spot.
Beginners not only have the ability to start their online study right away, but they can also
see immediate results. Online learning provides a range of chances to enhance the audience,
whether it is instructor-led or self-paced. Online learning also makes it simple to quickly access
extra online resources, which is always a bonus.
Disadvantages of online learning
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1. Can't focus on the screen
For many students, one of the biggest challenges of online learning is their inability to
pay attention for long periods of time. When studying online, students are also more prone to
become quickly distracted by social media and other websites. In order for students to
concentrate on their studies, teachers must ensure that their online courses are crystal clear,
interesting, and interactive.
2. technical problem
For online education, internet connectivity is still another significant problem. Despite the
recent surge in internet usage, it might be challenging to locate a dependable connection with
sufficient speed in smaller cities and villages. If teachers and pupils are not always connected to
the Internet, children's learning may be disrupted. This harms the educational process.
3. feeling of isolation
When students are with their classmates, they can learn a lot. In contrast, there is limited
face-to-face interaction between students and instructors in online courses. Students often
experience isolation as a result of this. Schools must permit alternative means of communication
between students, classmates, and teachers in these circumstances. This includes emails, video
conferences, and messages from online girlfriends that promote close communication and lessen
feelings of loneliness.
4. Teacher training
To teach online, teachers need a fundamental knowledge of how to manage digital
learning. Though not always, this is the case. Many times, teachers only know the bare minimum
about technology. Online, she might not even have the essential materials or equipment to
complete the course in some circumstances. In order to fight this, it is crucial that schools engage
in teacher training that takes use of the most recent technological advancements.
5. Manage screen time
Many parents are concerned about the long-term repercussions of letting their children
spend the entire day glued to screens on their children's health. The more time spent in front of a
screen is one of the biggest problems and drawbacks of online learning. The danger of acquiring
poor posture and other physical problems increases for students who slump in front of the
computer. An ideal solution to this is to give students lots of screen-free time so they can rest
their bodies and minds.
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6. It can be impersonal.
Even if we totally move human communication to online platforms, virtual surroundings
are not human, regardless of how natural it may seem to build human interactions behind a
computer screen. Human ties cannot be replaced.
7. Being in front of a computer screen for too long can be harmful.
Being online constantly is the new reality, but using a computer or tablet constantly can
really cause eye strain, overuse injuries, and other health issues. Think about giving instructions
like desk height together with any e-learning course. It may be of great assistance to their
audience.
Learning is frequently seen as an inherent aspect of both work and personal life. Both
learning to obtain a job and learning to learn should be prioritised. The online environment is
dynamic and offers many options for learning. Finding strategies to learn using all of the various
communication channels while selecting the one that best fits a person's filtering style is crucial.
Online education is becoming more and more popular today. Many traditional schools started
offering their online courses for free. From law and accounting to the human sciences, including
psychology and sociology, or history, it represents an easy and comfortable method of obtaining
knowledge in almost every field. Online education is a wonderful substitute for people who don't
have the time or money to attend regular universities.
Advantages of Online learning
Even though many people still believe that visiting conventional institutions is the
greatest way to learn and graduate, online learning is an excellent alternative. Students have the
option of studying on their own schedule and, more importantly, for nothing. It is an excellent
way to broaden one's knowledge of numerous topics and to boost motivation. Online learning is
so advantageous because it allows students to complete their coursework quickly while still
having more time for extracurricular activities or job searching. Participants can study wherever
they want and at any time as they have access to all the resources of conventional courses. In
essence, everyone with an internet connection can enrol in different courses. Students who learn
online develop their sense of responsibility and discipline.
Disadvantages of online learning
The best way for a person to develop is in a small group. The ability to compete in school is
the most crucial lesson that students learn, along with social skills, patience, and how to handle
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disappointment. Peer competition is incredibly fun, and pupils only gain from it. Human
interaction cannot be provided by online education. Another issue is that thousands of students
seeking to participate in discussions in online courses cannot be accommodated. Online learning
can also be challenging when it covers areas that involve hands-on practice.
CONCLUSION
From the above report it is concluded that online education can be seen as an addition to and
development of conventional learning methods. Even the best online courses cannot fully
substitute for in-person interactions with instructors and the bonds forged in group settings.
Online courses shouldn't take the place of conventional instruction. Both higher education and
corporate training have undergone a full transformation thanks to online learning. To ensure that
readers are aware of the advantages and potential drawbacks of online learning, we have
provided a comprehensive list in this article.
TASK 2
During the research I faced various challenges and difficulties that help me to improve my
skills and knowledge regarding the academic research of covid-19 and its conscious on online
learning. As it was difficult to research the aspects related to Covid-19 and its impacts on the
students and their education system. I was needed to have the research skills, as my project
report was required to have various skills and knowledge in order to complete report. During my
initial self-assessment and evaluation, self-awareness was an essential aspect of becoming an
effective. I'm aware of a few things that may be blocking things. As a current community support
worker, I have had the opportunity to work with people who need different levels of support. The
support of a certain population gave me the opportunity to use my communication skills. Specific
Skills I Already Have B. Great communication, empathy, and openness to new things. However,
throughout the course, I learned various treatment guidelines such as confidentiality,
participation skills, and self-awareness. Knowing these basic practices and skills has allowed me
to become a balanced, confident and competent. made progress. At the beginning of the
semester, I planned to study a variety of research approaches, learn to become culturally
competent, and become more self-aware. Throughout the course, not much was said about
incorporating theoretical approaches and frameworks into therapy. Nevertheless, what I learned
made me more culturally competent and confident. I was able to gain confidence. For doing the
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research I faced issues on my research skills as it was difficult for me to type the specific and
search the topic on internet in order to complete the report. I was little confused regarding the
topic on online learning platforms that students and teachers were facing in the initial time phase
of covid-19. Additionally, intentional alterations in structure, content, phrasing, tone, form,
design, and/or medium in response to rhetorical situations have contributed to the development
of rhetorical expertise. This is the outcome of numerous tasks, not just one. We were required to
produce a variety of essays throughout the course that displayed various writing styles. I was
able to adapt the content to my needs, changing it to include anything from infographics and
research questions to storytelling and analysis. For instance, I had to write to explain the
narrative in the literacy example. This entails include foreshadowing as well as well-known story
components like the beginning, middle, climax, and resolution. This writing style is distinct from
picture analysis articles, which have an instructive rather than narrative goal. Essentials such as
facts, context, and comparisons are mutual in this case, and elements like narrative are not
suitable here. Understanding how to write in these types and how to keep it right shows that I
have achieved this result. Utilizing methods like interpretation, synthesis, reaction, criticism, and
design/redesign to turn foreign content into creative writing is another way I've been able to
improve my critical thinking, reading comprehension, and information literacy. Using and
incorporating foreign material through citation., paraphrase, and summarize. Having completed
my image analysis essay, I was able to draw conclusions about the use of foreign languages in
my writing. I used two ads in my essay, analysed how they were created, who they were aimed
at, and finally compared and contrasted them. I have commented extensively on its effectiveness
and how it has been improved. Speaking of utilising foreign sources, I discovered findings in my
research essay regarding the employment of paraphrase dependent on the type of the work was
displayed. By using external sources, I was able to strengthen my reasoning and improved my
ability to read and bring out information, thus improving as a writer. Working on several
versions of a project, understanding the importance of reflection, revision, and editing in the
process, and emphasising the collaborative and social components of writing are the third
objective attained in this course. It was then possible to create powerful writing techniques, like
B. Developed future writing skills by learning to give and receive constructive criticism on work-
in-progress from peers and instructors as well as during one-on-one discussions. learn to apply
critical thinking to the development and application of them. Initial results were achieved with
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only rough her drafts of each project. Normally, I would have had to brainstorm first, but since I
already had the knowledge, I didn't need to do that. Despite some initial errors, the majority of
them were soon corrected during editing. Peer review assisted in achieving the second result.
Because I didn't know how to do it, I always struggled with it. I realised how important it was
after learning about it. This enabled me to identify errors that my brain had missed and determine
which errors were made the most frequently. Knowing what to avoid when writing thanks to this.
I was able to identify frequent spelling errors and learn what to avoid by reading other people's
work. Peer-reviewed reflections were used to arrive at the final results. This is self-explanatory,
but being able to ponder the advice given is helpful. Mainly because I can step back and start all
over again. I can see what I did well and what I should avoid in the future. Then hopefully I
won't make the same mistake in my future endeavours.
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REFERENCES
Books and Journals
Ali, I., Narayan, A.K. and Sharma, U., 2020. Adapting to COVID-19 disruptions: student
engagement in online learning of accounting. Accounting Research Journal.
Bdair, I.A., 2021. Nursing students' and faculty members' perspectives about online learning
during COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative study. Teaching and Learning in
Nursing, 16(3), pp.220-226.
Bidwell, L.M., Grether, S.T. and Pederson, J., 2020. Disruption and difficulty: Student and
faculty perceptions of the transition to online instruction in the COVID-19 pandemic.
In COVID-19 (pp. 31-46). Routledge.
Darawong, C. and Widayati, A., 2021. Improving student satisfaction and learning outcomes
with service quality of online courses: evidence from Thai and Indonesian higher
education institutions. Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education.
Dinh, L.P. and Nguyen, T.T., 2020. Pandemic, social distancing, and social work education:
Students’ satisfaction with online education in Vietnam. Social Work Education, 39(8),
pp.1074-1083.
Garris, C.P. and Fleck, B., 2022. Student evaluations of transitioned-online courses during the
COVID-19 pandemic. Scholarship of Teaching and Learning in Psychology, 8(2),
p.119.
Hussein, E., Daoud, S., Alrabaiah, H. and Badawi, R., 2020. Exploring undergraduate students’
attitudes towards emergency online learning during COVID-19: A case from the
UAE. Children and youth services review, 119, p.105699.
Khan, M.A., 2021. The impact of COVID-19 on UK higher education students: experiences,
observations and suggestions for the way forward. Corporate Governance: The
International Journal of Business in Society.
Pittman, J., Severino, L., DeCarlo-Tecce, M.J. and Kiosoglous, C., 2021. An action research case
study: Digital equity and educational inclusion during an emergent COVID-19
divide. Journal for Multicultural Education.
Tarchi, C., Brante, E.W., Jokar, M. and Manzari, E., 2022. Pre-service teachers’ conceptions of
online learning in emergency distance education: How is it defined and what self-
regulated learning skills are associated with it?. Teaching and Teacher Education, 113,
p.103669.
Yang, B. and Huang, C., 2021. Turn crisis into opportunity in response to COVID-19:
experience from a Chinese University and future prospects. Studies in Higher
Education, 46(1), pp.121-132.
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