The learning system in some African colleges is abasing due to some actions that can disrupt the face-to-face learning process. Actions such as teacher strikes, political unrest, pandemic, and natural disasters can adversely affect students’ motivation for learning. However, it degrades the academic performance of students, they begin to lose interest in learning and gaining knowledge, hence becoming certificate seekers which leads to a major factor in producing unqualified graduates who are deficient in their fields of study.
Online learning can help bridge these gaps in formal schooling when this period of disruption occurs. Teachers/Lecturers can support this student to keep up with the academic calendar by using education technologies to supplement formal schooling when the opportunity to have a face-to-face class interaction is not available.
This article discusses why African colleges should embrace the online learning system when physical learning is hindered.
Online classes should be embraced in African Colleges
As technology advances and user experience improves, so does the need for online education. Online learning has proven to be a successful method of teaching and learning. Understanding the importance of this method of teaching and learning will help African colleges to improve and upgrade their school curriculum. Online learning can also help both the school and students to save costs and time too. By providing an e-learning system, the institution will help distant learning students and those with a tight schedule to continue their education and earn a degree.
Benefits of Embracing the Online Learning System
Below are reasons African colleges need to embrace online learning;
- Online classes allow students to keep learning despite government restrictions or strikes. The students will not have to wait for longer periods before they can connect physically with their mates to learn.
- It helps connect students internationally. Students have the opportunity to gain a different perspective and learn about people, and cultures which help their thinking ability without restriction, unlike traditional learning.
- It creates room for slow learners. Every child is different and not all can learn fast like others. Online learning gives each student freedom to work and learns in their own space, which improves their learning experience and helps them better understand a certain topic.
- Students have control over their learning. The study method of every student differs, some prefer to learn quietly while others like interactive tasks and being challenged under pressure. Online learning gives students the time to teach themselves concepts differently. It also helps those who learn slowly to explore different learning methods, which in turn enables them to retain information.
- Students will be able to complete their study program at the exact time. Online learning offers flexible learning hours. It gives the student the ability to learn at their own pace. The learning system will not be placed on hold despite any political crisis or government restrictions, learning will still be in progress and students will be able to complete their study program on time.
- It gives a vast selection of programs. Online learning allows the student to choose any subjects or skills they’re interested in and would like to learn. Most colleges have adopted this new method of teaching and learning by offering programs for various levels and disciplines.
Online learning is the best alternative to the traditional learning method and it has proven to be valid and useful for many students. Studying online is a great benefit for both the students and their Lecturers. It will help them follow the academic calendar and students will be able to get certified as soon as they complete their study program.
Thinking of how to cope with online learning? check out this article
