The advancement of technology and the internet freed education from the confines of a physical classroom. Today, students from every level have access to quality education whenever and wherever they want.
When the COVID-19 outbreak closed down schools and affected over 1.2 billion students worldwide, online learning became more than just an option. It became a central factor in people’s lives.
As the world gradually recovers from the pandemic and universities start opening, will online learning remain the future of higher education? This article will provide several good reasons online education will still matter in the future.
It Offers Convenience & Flexibility
Online learning courses are designed to adapt to a student’s schedule. It allows learners to pursue their desired course or subject at their preferred time and pace. Traditional classroom learning does not always offer this kind of convenience and flexibility.
More importantly, online education offers accessibility. It enables students to study from anywhere in the world. The virtual classroom is always available if there’s an internet connection.
Web-Based Learning Is (Still) On the Rise
Due to the pandemic, the Massive Open Online Course Market (MOOC), which includes many online learning platforms, is expected to grow by $16 billion from 2021 to 2025. This is likely due to the popularity of convenient modes of online learning like live streaming, video-on-demand, and webinars.
Regardless of what modes are chosen by students, the convenience, flexibility, and accessibility that online learning provides will make it even more popular in the coming years.
For online learning institutions, web-based learning enables more students to enroll in their courses. Classes that are dependent on pre-recorded videos and assessments can have an unlimited number of students enrolled.
It Has Improved the Quality of Learning
Studies show that retention rates are higher in online learning than in traditional classroom courses. The Boston Consulting Group, in partnership with Arizona State University, found that students who take more online classes tend to graduate sooner.
This is likely due to the decrease in pressures that are usually present in traditional school systems. One of the primary benefits of online learning is that it allows students to learn at their own pace.
Many online courses have learning materials available anytime, giving students the chance to rewatch lectures and review materials. Supplemental reading recommendations, study guides, and other learning materials are also provided to help keep students engaged.
It’s Cost-Effective
The average cost of college for one student in the United States is around $35,720 per year. It doesn’t always include accommodation, textbooks, equipment, transportation, and other expenses.
Online learning is usually priced lower than most traditional university courses. According to a story by U.S. News and World Report, an online college program (in-state) can cost $11,040 to $20,956.
Many online courses offer a wide range of payment options that let students pay in installments or for each class. It allows for better budget management. Students can also save money from the commute and other expenses stated above.
When it comes to learning online, the monetary investment can be significantly less—which means that more students will potentially have access to a college education.
There’s no denying that online learning is the future of higher education. While it may not completely replace traditional classroom learning, it remains a beneficial option to those who prefer to study online.
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