Online teaching
Online teaching is a method of distance learning that has gained popularity in recent years. This learning happens online where there is little or no physical interaction among the students or with professors. Class sessions occur online, course material is availed online, and assignments are submitted via designated portals within the online learning system. It can also be referred to as virtual learning.
The costs of online courses are lower than those of traditional learning, giving less advantaged students a chance to get an education. Also, since a student can choose which time of learning bests suits them, they can pursue other interests and opportunities or even advance in their careers. However, the lack of face to face interaction may inadequately prepare a student for the real world, because, with learning taking place online, slower students might not get a chance to meet with a professor to request for extra tutoring. Online learning also requires more reading and assignments than in physical classes, which can be tedious for busy or lazy students.
Online teaching offers the instructors flexibility and convenience to also engage in other activities. Furthermore, this learning may have students from diverse backgrounds, and their contributions to the subjects in the course broaden the professor’s perspective and knowledge. As technology and software keep advancing, most instructors struggle with constant learning to keep up with these changes. It is time-consuming to do so as well as to communicate with every student individually.
As the need for online courses rises, most universities capitalize on this by offering many programs, increasing their profits. It also allows the institution more space that can be repurposed. However, poor quality online courses may contribute to the loss of credibility of the university if the online learning systems are not well-vetted and managed.