Internet-based learning delivery is a form of education that uses the internet as a medium to deliver instructional content and facilitate interaction between learners and instructors. It can also be called online learning, e-learning, or distance learning. Internet-based learning delivery has many advantages and challenges for both learners and instructors.
Advantages
– It offers flexibility and convenience for learners who can access the content anytime and anywhere, as long as they have an internet connection and a device. For example, a learner who works full-time can take an online course in the evening or on the weekend, without having to commute to a campus or classroom.
– It allows learners to choose from a variety of courses and programs that may not be available in their local area or institution. For example, a learner who lives in a rural area can enroll in an online program that offers specialized courses or degrees that are not offered by their local college or university.
– It enables learners to learn at their own pace and style, and to customize their learning experience according to their preferences and needs. For example, a learner who prefers visual or auditory learning can watch videos or listen to podcasts that explain the course content, while a learner who prefers interactive or hands-on learning can participate in simulations or games that demonstrate the course concepts.
– It fosters collaboration and communication among learners and instructors through various online tools and platforms, such as discussion forums, chats, video conferencing, etc. For example, a learner who is shy or introverted can express their ideas and opinions more freely in an online discussion forum than in a face-to-face classroom setting, while a learner who is from a different cultural or linguistic background can interact with peers and instructors from diverse backgrounds and perspectives in an online chat or video conference.
– It provides learners with immediate feedback and assessment through quizzes, tests, assignments, etc., that can be automatically graded and tracked. For example, a learner who wants to check their understanding of the course content can take an online quiz that gives them instant results and feedback, while a learner who wants to monitor their progress and performance can access an online dashboard that shows them their grades and achievements.
Challenges
– It requires learners to have a high level of self-motivation, discipline, and time management skills to complete the course successfully. For example, a learner who is easily distracted or procrastinates may find it hard to stay focused and motivated in an online course that does not have fixed deadlines or schedules, while a learner who has multiple commitments or responsibilities may find it hard to balance their time and energy between their online course and their other obligations.
– It may create a sense of isolation and lack of social interaction for learners who do not have frequent or meaningful contact with their peers and instructors. For example, a learner who feels lonely or bored may lose interest or engagement in an online course that does not offer opportunities for socializing or networking with other learners or instructors, while a learner who needs emotional or academic support may feel frustrated or discouraged in an online course that does not provide adequate feedback or guidance from their instructors or mentors.
– It may pose technical difficulties and barriers for learners who do not have reliable internet access or adequate devices or software. For example, a learner who lives in an area with poor internet connectivity or power supply may experience interruptions or delays in accessing the online course content or participating in the online activities, while a learner who does not have the necessary devices or software may encounter problems or errors in viewing the online course materials or submitting the online assignments.
– It may raise issues of quality and credibility for some online courses and programs that are not accredited or recognized by relevant authorities or institutions. For example, a learner who wants to pursue further education or employment may face difficulties or challenges in transferring their credits or credentials from an online course or program that is not accredited by a reputable agency or organization, while a learner who wants to ensure the quality and validity of their online course or program may have doubts or concerns about the qualifications and expertise of their online instructors or the rigor and relevance of their online curriculum.
– It may demand a high level of digital literacy and skills for learners and instructors to use the online tools and platforms effectively and efficiently. For example, a learner who is not familiar with the online tools or platforms may struggle to navigate the online course environment or use the online features properly, while an instructor who is not skilled in the online pedagogy may find it challenging to design the online course content or facilitate the online learning activities.
Internet-based learning delivery is a rapidly growing and evolving field that offers many opportunities and challenges for education. It is important for learners and instructors to be aware of the benefits and drawbacks of this mode of learning, and to adopt strategies and practices that can enhance online learning experience.