2020 has been a rough year for our students and educators. Students have lost graduation privileges, school functions, school sports, and connections to friends during one year alone. To most, hearing that virtual learning will be the only option to continue their education was devastating. This announcement left many students, educators, and parents concerned for the future and curious about the disadvantages of remote learning. With the potential of a second coronavirus lockdown, it is important to be aware of virtual learning cons.
Technology
One of the most helpful advances of our generation has been technology, but it may be our worst enemy in the case of virtual learning. Many people assume that because children are constantly on their phones, tablets, TVs, and more, it is effortless to adjust to remote learning online; however, that is not the case. Technology has a lot of glitches and issues that may prohibit learning. For example, not everyone has access to strong wifi 24/7. It is also difficult to fully grasp learning concepts when the audio is not the best, or you have to give a presentation speech over the computer, in addition to not being able to see everyone's reaction. Technology is an extra hurdle that could be avoided when conducting in-person learning as opposed to remote learning.
Social interaction
Educational students include children, young adults, teenagers, and even adults trying to find themselves. This means students are growing within themselves and trying to figure out life. Therefore, social interaction is essential to the growth process and the development of the human brain. With virtual learning, students lack face-to-face interaction. The lack of social interaction is detrimental when comparing education and life skills. It is important to consider the effects on students' mental health when conducting virtual learning and normalcy loss.
Getting help
For most students, it may difficult sometimes to grasps new concepts, even in an in-person setting. Therefore, it is even harder for students to fully understand new knowledge and attempt to get aid, such as person to person tutoring from educators. The lack of social interaction and technology dependency can lead to a downward spiral when catering to students' and educators' needs. Remote learning is not as simple as raising your hand in class for immediate attention. So it is important to understand your needs as a student when committing to remote learning.
Curriculum
Lastly, a disadvantage to virtual learning is the new curriculum students will have to follow. This remote learning form may include the same structure; however, students learn in many different ways. Therefore, students will lack hands-on activities, as well as group work and presentations. When considered virtual learning, remember to weigh your thoughts on education and how important your curriculum may be altered. Although there are many disadvantages to remote learning, be sure to check out our post on the advantages of virtual learning.
If you are interested in hearing about the pros of virtual learning, read the Advantages of Virtual Learning.
Check out our post on education or view the entire blog to understand the importance of knowledge and personal development.
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