Is Online Learning Effective?

Sherwin M. Ramos

The COVID-19 pandemic has made the education sector shift from its traditional classroom style of learning to digital-based online learning.

Learning online primarily employs the use of internet connectivity and digital devices. Classes are held through video calls with materials distributed online or sent to students in advance.

This is the new normal way of studying for young Filipino students. But, is this kind of learning effective? Based on several researches, online learning can be effective especially for those who have access to the right technology.

On an average, students retain 25 to 60 percent more material when learning online compared to only 8-10 percent in a classroom. Research shows that this is because students are able to learn faster online.

When studying online, students can learn at their own pace, going back and re-reading, skipping, or accelerating through concepts as they choose.

Some of the other advantages of distance learning include a wide range of educational resources, flexibility, and personalized learning.

With electronic devices and the internet as the main medium of distance learning, educational resources online are limitless. Teachers can explore teaching aids and materials available online that can best suit their lessons.

Compared to conventional classroom lessons, studying online is more flexible allowing teachers and students to have more time to prepare for their classes. With such flexibility, students can study at their own phase and eventually discover what learning style is best for them.

With all these advantages, online learning proves to be effective when properly done.

The author is Teacher

--oOo-

III at Sta. Cruz Elementary SchoolMagalang South District