Comparison of E-learning and traditional education
Online and traditional learning are both effective modes of education. The controversy arises concerning the most effective of the modes. Some scholars argue that online learning is more effective while others counter asserting that some fields that require hands-on learning are compromised by integrating virtual classes. Both of these scholars have valid arguments and justifications. However, most argue what they believe to be true, and it is upon the audience to agree or disagree with their assertions. This paper will compare and contrast online and traditional learning as outlines in different literary works.
Hrastinski argues that E-learning is a very effective means for students to access educational resources. The author justifies this learning mode by pointing out that virtual classroom through video conferencing technology allows students and instructors to interact as if they were in a physical class. This gives the students and instructors of physical classrooms and facilitates achievement of class objectives. Advancement in technology further justifies the author’s claims with both synchronous and asynchronous e-learning that allow different levels of participation for both students and instructors. On the other hand, Murray and Jorge argue that traditional learning is unparalleled. They assert that traditional learning provides instructors with better control over the classroom. From an informing and performing point of view, physical learning has been proven to aid in better student empowerment than E-learning. The traditional learning environment in a classroom is deemed more effective compared to virtual classes through video-conferencing technology. Physical classes allow instructors to evaluate the participation and contribution of individual students with ease. Virtual classes, on the other hand, are challenging to evaluate despite having online discussion boards. In the case of pf physical classes, instructors can ask students random questions while discussion boards issue students and prompt answered from reviewing resources. Physical classes as a mode of traditional learning are, therefore, more effective compared to online learning.
Some technical fields are very demanding and require students to engage in hands-on activities. Such fields include engineering and medicine. Therefore, traditional learning is more important in such fields where students are required to interact with the environment as they study. Medicine, for instance, requires students to interact with cadavers as they simulate their learning practices. Engineers, on the other hand, interact with different materials to complement their learning. Therefore, the author argues that traditional learning is more effective in technical studies than online learning. Some fields require individuals to remain up to date with changes in the field. In such cases, employees are required to further their studies while they work. Physical learning is, therefore, challenging due to scheduling complexities. However, online learning eases these complexities by allowing individuals to pursue studies during their part-time. This allows individuals to meet their different needs by enrolling in virtual classes while engaging in various activities.
Traditional learning implies that individuals attend schools in their proximity. In cases where preferred schools are far, they are forced to travel to access quality education. This implies a high cost of living in new neighborhoods, which may lower a student’s quality of life, among other challenges. The complexity has been lifted by online learning. Virtual classes make it possible for individuals to study overseas in the comfort of their homes. Therefore, online learning provides a viable way for prospective learners to access high-quality education over the internet. Compared to traditional learning, online learning makes it possible for individuals to access high-quality education in other nations without enduring stressful relocations.