The online class has become one of the essential ways of making resources available for teachers and learners to share and acquire information. Online class also known as e-learning encompasses the use of the internet and other technologies to produce materials for learning. This new method of learning proved very useful during the 2020 pandemic, when schools could not operate normally. Although the adoption of the online class has many significant advantages, its total dependence comes with some barriers. These barriers/challenges make the total adoption of online class impossible. Hence, this paper shall examine some of the reasons the online class should not be adopted more over the physical class.
One of the reasons the online class should not be adopted more is the many health issues its continuous usage causes. Research has shown that staring too long at the screen causes blurred vision, dizziness, dry eyes, eye strain and headache. People who use electronic gadget often have higher risk of fibromyalgia, back and muscle pain. Consistent use of online education will increase the amount of time learners spend on digital devices every day, and this has far reaching effects on their mental health due to irregular sleep cycle.
Another challenge associated with the total adoption of online class is technical issues. Although online education boosts the technical skills of learners, it has also emerged as another key challenge for them. E-learning is completely dependent on proper internet connectivity, functional systems and constant electricity. In Nigeria, constant electricity and consistent connection with high speed is a major problem, thus without consistent electricity and internet connection, learning will be disrupted. Learning from a website or other online platforms also require that one understands online technology. It is not just about knowing how to start your computer and getting to the site. You need to know how to navigate the screen. This is very easy for people who are always online on different sites. They can figure out how to maneuver around a video, task or text. Without such skills, online learning becomes stressful.
Furthermore, online learning lacks the warmth of face to face interaction. Learning in a physical classroom is interesting and more involving as human interaction is present. There are classmates to connect with and an instructor to consult for immediate feedback. This is lacking in online learning. In addition, physical learning enhances communication and social skills, which are required to co-exist with learners of different backgrounds. Physical learning can be a major force in helping children successfully socialize with others and provide an environment to learn interpersonal skills. Physical learning/class also creates the opportunity to work together in groups and teams.
Similarly, online learning can create a sense of isolation in learners. Students can learn a lot from being in the company of their peers. However, in an online class, there are minimal physical interactions between students and teachers. This often results in a sense of isolation for the students. In this situation, it is imperative that the school allow for other forms of communication between the students, peers, and teachers. This can include online messages, emails and video conferencing that will allow for face-to-face interaction and reduce the sense of isolation.
Online classes also require a greater amount of reading and assignments than traditional classes. Programs in general are improving the quality of their online courses, and this means that students will have to do more to prove that they’ve mastered the material. Expect to spend at least 10 hours per week on each online course.
In conclusion, the online class has become an important method of acquiring information and knowledge. Although it is playing a vital role in ensuring the continuity of learning, it comes with many challenges/ barriers, thus it should not be solely depended on. Online class should be used along with physical class so that learners won’t lack social, communication and interpersonal skills.
Like you have said at the last part,online classes shouldn't be used independently. It should be use along with the physical classes. Nice article sir.