The Online Shift

Due to the recent COVID-19 worldwide phenomenon, there has been a huge shift to global online learning, not as a preference, but as a necessity. Online courses used to just be a popular alternative study method. Today however, in order to keep education going, keep schools alive and keep everyone learning while being shut up indoors, online learning is the biggest advantage that we have.

Online learning provides the user with flexibility, as students can continue to work and study at the same time. Students can also study in the comfort and privacy of their homes, usually at their own pace. While face to face learning, has major advantages, we cannot deny that online learning is able to transfer knowledge from teacher to student as well.

Maybe not with the same effectiveness though. In fact one source records that the completion rate of teacher-led classes is almost five times higher than that of online learning. Another finding states that students retain more of what is taught in a face to face situation. Why? Because a teacher’s role is not just about helping her students acquire knowledge but rather helping students understand, interpret and apply the knowledge available to them. And this is done most effectively face to face. The teacher is viewed also as a councillor and guide; someone to encourage and spur the student on in a stable learning environment.

Until we are able to be face to face with anyone, while we sit in confinement and improve ourselves from the comforts of our homes, let us continue to learn. Online learning provides the alternative. With platforms becoming more and more user friendly and technology and internet speeds improving, there is really no excuse not to use this ‘downtime’ to study.

We at The English Curve present the best of both worlds through blended learning. A balance between combining a clear structure and pathway, with the flexibility about where and when to engage with many of the individual learning activities. Our classes are currently available through Skype. Get in touch with us to find out more details.