Online Learning: Have we arrived at the virtual world?

Education during times of such uncertainty has presented both unfavourable yet refreshing to both students and teachers. More than 300 million students worldwide have had their education disrupted by the Coronavirus pandemic. The sudden shift away from the classroom, to remote learning, has begged the question: Will we continue to adopt online education despite the return to normality?

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In all honesty, YES.

Having been able to develop new software such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams, education institutions can create a full learning experience, which is visual and similar to a classroom setting. There is also a 'comfort factor' associated with remote learning as students can attend classes from the comfort of their own homes and in their desired attire. However, this relaxed element has changed the tone of learning meaning the threat of being disciplined, if attendance is low or prep isn't completed, is simply not intimidating. online learning means there is a greater chance of students being easily distracted via social media, gaming or just simply unable to engage with the class.

Virtualization of learning will continue to grow and be used increasingly in the future due to its accessibility. Not only does it benefit students but work professionals have been able to use it advantageously too. Remote meetings allow them to communicate globally without the increased travel expenditure. Although there have been massive financial benefits to business operations, such as lower infrastructure costs, it's important to balance employees social needs as well. After using electrical devices for prolonged periods users are exposed to eye strain and posture problems. Mental health is extremely important as well, and remote learning limits social interaction which can be hard for some people to go without. This can lead to mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety.

online learning is one of our greatest technological breakthroughs, however its unreliability with internet connections and inability to ensure all students can afford a computer it's hard to see the classroom disappearing.