The term “online” was not as popular in the 1970s and 1980s as the concept of “airplane” was in the early 20th century. The Internet was at a stage of development in the early 1990s compared to today, and traditional notions of online courses were different in the 1990s than they are today.
We are in the 21st century where anything is possible and acceptable. For example, students are learning at home/at work using a computer, which is called online learning/education.
There are several factors contributing to the growing popularity of online learning:
- Young people are choosing non-traditional education to start and advance their careers while complementing and continuing their education.
- The economic crisis of 2008 led to a worsening economic situation. After it, people started to upgrade and change their skills through online training programs.
- Online learning method can be a very effective alternative learning method for mature, self-disciplined and motivated students who are well organized and can manage their time well. But this learning environment is inappropriate for dependents and non-self-directed individuals. Online courses require independence.
There are different types of online learning, but prospective students should consider some factors common to all types before enrolling in any course, program. Generally, all these factors are not applicable to every online learning situation, but they are applicable to most of them.
If you are a teacher, you may approach this new learning paradigm with varying degrees of enthusiasm and interest. Ask yourself a few questions:
Are you optimistic or skeptical about online learning?
Are you interested in learning how taking online courses can improve your education and provide excellent learning opportunities for your students?
Do you want to know what you will encounter when planning and delivering online classes?
It is crucial to consider both the pros and cons of online learning so that you can better prepare yourself to work in this new environment and take advantage of the new opportunities it has to offer.