In fact, there are many reasons why eLearning (online learning) can be considered effective (and sometimes even more effective than traditional learning). Here are a few of the main arguments:
Students gain more knowledge than in standard classes
Online learners benefit from a variety of materials, including multimedia content that promotes better memorization. Since the online format allows students to take full control over their studies, they can work at their own pace.
Online learning ensures better attendance rates
The main goal of any learning experience is to keep students engaged throughout the semester. If seminars or lectures are conducted online, it is much easier to do this. After all, you don’t even have to leave home to attend a class.
Online learning requires less time
Usually, people spend half as much time studying online as they do in a traditional classroom. It’s also worth mentioning that eLearning allows learners to divide their study time as they see fit. They don’t necessarily have to dedicate a lot of time to the course. Half an hour each day during their lunch break or as much as they feel is necessary to master the material is enough.
Online learning is a greener option
According to the UK Open University, online courses use 90% less energy and emit 85% less CO2 per learner than traditional face-to-face courses. As a result, online learning and multimedia materials are becoming more effective learning tools. And one university has also made great strides in saving energy (4,000 hours of lighting) through online classes. This not only saved thousands of dollars, but also prevented 19 tons of CO2 emissions.
Online training helps employees work more efficiently
Companies that utilize technology-based training methods tend to generate more revenue per employee. After all, online learning helps employees expand their professional development opportunities. Employees will feel more valued, leading to lower turnover. And because the training will be conducted online, it won’t take up as much of their time as it would with traditional training methods.
Networking Opportunities
Online learning provides students with the opportunity to network with peers from different countries or even continents. This often leads to new opportunities for collaboration and helps to realize interesting projects. At the same time, it helps to easily integrate into a different environment by getting to know people from other countries.
When organizing online learning, it is worth keeping in mind the challenges you may face. First of all, your students need to have access to an online learning environment. If you are, say, hosting webinars, make sure that you use a quality platform for planning and hosting online events and that all participants have access.
Also, both instructor and students should have a minimum level of computer knowledge to be successful in an online environment. Although this is probably not a problem these days. In any case, it’s best to test out an online learning platform so that you don’t have technology issues on the day of class.