Online learning in the time of Covid-19

             " Online learning in the time of Covid-19 "

The year 2020 will be remembered as a time of unusual challenges and severe changes in nearly every aspect of our lives. The COVID-19 pandemic spread over the world, infecting billions of people and transforming several industries. Education was one of the areas that was severely hit with colleges and universities being obliged to physically close their doors to stop the virus’s spread. In this blog, we'll look at the influence of online learning during COVID-19, as well as the advantages and disadvantages it brought for the future of education.

The Transition to Online Learning

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced educational institutions all over the world including Bangladesh to close. It has been 3 years since the COVID-19 outbreak. Pandemics such as the covid-19 discontinue the classic style of education, forcing teachers and students to adopt new methods of learning which disrupt the learning process involving human interaction and transfer it to forced virtualization. 

Advantages of Online Learning 

A common perception prevails that there are many pros of online education. Primarily as classroom , chair , table ,bench , supporting staffs are not required for it. Proper utilization of online education maybe more effective than classroom teaching. Also maximum accommodation , minimum cost , no significant area , global environment , specialized course are some of the advantages of online learning. Some of the details are given below- 

(i). Safety and Social Distancing: Despite the pandemic's health risks, online education allowed students to learn from the comfort of their own homes, reducing the possibility that they would come into contact with the virus.

(ii). Learning Continuity: During a period when access to physical classrooms was limited, online education made sure that learning remained continuous. Less disturbance to their academic progress was caused by the ability of students to access course materials, attend classes, and submit assignments online.

(iii). Flexibility and Easy Access: Students can learn at their own pace and on their own time because of the unmatched flexibility offered by online learning. Working humans, parents, and people with other commitments can manage their education with regular tasks, which is very helpful for them.

(iv). Wide number of Courses and Specializations: Online learning environments offer a huge selection of courses in a number of academic fields, as well as training in specialized professions and professional certifications. Students can select from a wide variety of alternatives to customize their education to meet their unique interests and professional aspirations.

(v). Cost Efficiency: Online education is generally less expensive than traditional education. The cost of textbooks , living expenses , and transportation can all be reduced by students, making education more affordable and available to more people.

                                                    (vi). Interactive Education Tools: To attract students                                                  and improve learning, many online courses use interactive features including multimedia presentations, simulations, and advanced technology.

Disadvantages of Online Learning 

Apparently, there are the prospective sides of online learning but our reality is far different due to many problems. Initially , a computer or any kind of device is needed which many cannot afford. After that , internet connection , power supply which is not available everywhere , particularly in rural areas. Further , lack of direct interaction , theoretical and practical exam , and Co-curricular activities are some of the disadvantages of online learning. Some of the details are given below-

(i). Lack of Face-to-Face Interaction: The lack of in-person interactions in online classes has an effect on attendance and interaction with others. It became important to develop fresh ideas for building a sense of community in the virtual world.

(ii). Limitations of Technology and Infrastructure: Not all students have access to the computers and fast internet that they needed to fully take part in online learning. Governments and organizations looked to address this issue by providing devices and internet connectivity. 

(iii). Distractions and interruptions: While studying at home or in a relaxed situation, students can face many kinds of distractions, including tasks at home, family members, or gadgets. Focused studies may be hampered by these disruptions.

Despite all those challenges, online learning offers a variety of solutions at a time when traditional classroom learning has been disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Finally, this online learning keeps going with combined pros and cons during the pandemic and still running…

To conclude, Online education is the way to the future of education. The future of learning is undoubtedly being shaped by online education. It is at the forward-thinking of educational progress because of its capacity to expand limitations, adjust to each student's needs, and accept technological innovation. Online education will continue to fill gaps, give learners more control, and change the educational process as time goes on. It's more than simply a technology; it represents a new way of thinking that has the possibility to transform education, encourage lifelong learning, and give people the abilities they need to succeed in a rapid, worldwide connected environment. The future of learning is here, and it's online.

Author’s Bio: 

Shakib-Al-Hossain was raised and born in Dhaka, on June 11, 2003. He studied from Willes Little Flower School and College, Dhaka, and currently studying in Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Engineering at Brac University.