PIDP 3100 Blog Post # 2 - Trends in Adult Education – Online Learning

Since the outbreak of COVID-19, most of activities that involves social interactions have evolve and our educational system was no exception. Online learning was already part of the educational system since the 1990s. Through the rapid growth of technology, online learning opens more possibilities and opportunities, such as for those who are looking to achieve further education. With its flexibility, online learning has gained popularity with adult learners, however, this type of learning has its draw backs and challenges as well.

Here are some of the challenges of online learning:

1. Ineffective Time Management

While online learning offers the advantage of allowing the learner to control his or her own pace, having this increased in flexibility can also be one of the challenges of online learning. Research shows how proper time management affects learning outcomes and promote success. Distractions are common when it comes to online learning. Due to a non-traditional classroom setup, students are more likely to procrastinate and get distracted.

Research suggests that understanding time management lowers students’ anxiety and leads to better academic development. Perhaps, one of the solutions is to create a plan or study schedule that will help students to focus, prioritize tasks, and be organized throughout their days.

2. Self-motivation

Another challenge in an online learning environment is staying motivated. Having the convenience of not physically attending campus can create a drawback. Unlike a traditional classroom setup, students have more drive to engage to the topic and interact with its peers.

Listing down the short term and long-term goals will help students as a reminder and source of motivation. Crossing out completed task on your list can provide motivation as it gives your progress.

3. Technical skills development

Communicating across the globe has never been easier. However, during the Covid-19 pandemic, every social interaction has given no choice but to transition to virtual learning. One of the limitations of online learning is developing technical skills.

For instance, learning a technical skill such as soldering power boards requires learners to practice soldering through hands-on experience. In order to overcome this challenge, students must have at least the same equipment for practical purposes. This will allow them to learn the skill from theory into practice and to enables them to reflect on their skills or identify any room for improvement.

4. Technical Issues

Getting an access to internet is vital for online learning. Technical problems can be an issue to this setup. Common technical issues such as Wi-Fi signal interruptions, computer web camera or microphone problems, and corruption of document file can affect students’ learning and motivation. To overcome such challenge, students must be able to address the situation to their teachers. The teacher might provide some school’s resources that are useful for the students who are experiencing these technical difficulties or contacting school’s IT department can also provide in-depth solution.

Link to the article: https://hospitalityinsights.ehl.edu/education-trends-2022

References

5 challenges students face with online learning in 2022. (2022, April 27). Meratas Inc. https://meratas.com/blog/5-challenges-students-face-with-remote-learning/

5 trends in education that continue in 2022. (n.d.). Hospitality News & Business Insights by EHL. https://hospitalityinsights.ehl.edu/education-trends-2022

Challenges of distance learning for students. (2022, July 19). National University. https://www.nu.edu/blog/challenges-of-distance-learning-for-students/

(n.d.). Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/jamesmarshallcrotty/2012/11/14/distance-learning-has-been-around-since-1892-you-big-mooc/?sh=688538f02318

Just a moment... (n.d.). Just a moment... https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/2158244018824506

Photo Reference

Opinion: Online learning is overwhelming — and students are falling behind. (2020, November 15). The Varsity. https://thevarsity.ca/2020/11/15/opinion-online-learning-is-overwhelming-and-students-are-falling-behind/