THE
PROBLEMS FACED BY BEGINNING ONLINE LEARNERS
1.Introduction
Distance
learning is a process of creating and provides access to learning when the source
of information and the learner are separate by distance and time.
Online
learning is a term used for any program, course, or software on the Internet
with a specific educational goal. As the Internet expands and communication
tools are further developed, on-line learning is becoming a convenient and
affordable way for people to study and even receive certification in all types
of subject matter.
Online
learning has several advantages over classroom learning. Students can study any
subject they wish regardless of where they live as long as they have Internet
access. They can also study with teachers and peers from around the world,
finding a level of expertise and support they may not have found in their
hometown. However, because on-line learning is a relatively new phenomenon,
little research has been performed to better understand its effectiveness when
compared with traditional classroom learning.
Expansion
of Online Education in the last 20 years, with the advancement in technology,
independent study has become more accessible for distance education students.
The ease
with which modern communications technologies can link educational institutions
to homes, work-sites, and community centers has made college, adult education
and lifelong learning matters of national policy can see as below.
The Internet is not owned or
controlled by any one person or organization.
Dissemination of knowledge and education through the Web has democratized opportunities for
learning. Millions of students, career professionals
and lifelong learners can now acquire diplomas, degrees and other
certifications through online learning. However, certain problems continue to
affect the dissemination of online courses and their fast-paced adoption.
Issues related to technology and downloading of applications, real-world
interaction with fellow students and professors and standardization of
instructional methodologies can limit the online learning and education
experience. The problems are described as
below : -
The Internet is not owned or
controlled by any one person or organization.
2.The Main Problems
Facing
with some problems beginning online learner is a normal for a new distance
learner .The main problems faced by most of the Open and Distance learner is Technology
Glitches, Lack of Classroom Interaction and Home-Based Distractions.
2.1 Technology Glitches
v One of the biggest
problems of online learning is ad hoc occurrence of technical glitches and
other problems that crop up with access technologies. The most well-developed,
robust and fool-proof technologies and tools are also susceptible to
vulnerabilities such as power failure and sudden malfunctioning. Streaming and
buffering of online classroom sessions and even downloading of session modules
and tutorials can get be hindered by slow Internet download speeds.
2.2 Lack of Classroom Interaction
v While advanced technologies and online networking tools have
greatly enhanced lecturer/tutor and student interaction, lack of real-world
classroom interaction is an oft-recounted problem. When lectures are Webcast or
streamed without the presence of live lecturers or instructors, queries and
doubts cannot be addressed in real time. Mentoring by professors and coaches tend
to be restricted to online sessions, emails and limited phone calls. Engagement
and collaboration for projects with fellow classmates in the real world is
limited, if at all.
2.3 Home-Based Distractions
v Mid-career professionals, workers, working mothers or stay-at-home
mothers and students tend to pursue online degrees and courses mostly from the
comforts of home. Generally, self-paced learning schedules can get distracted
due to home-based situations, scenarios and related activities. Lack of discipline
and lethargy in a home-based or non-campus environment is quite common, leading
to a backlog of classroom sessions and lectures to catch up on. Other
distractions include children playing around and disturbing important online
classroom sessions.
3.Suggestions To Reduce Or Eliminate The Problems
3.1 Technology Glitches – First Problem
To overcome the problem of slow internet download speeds as stated in the description above is the online Learners must find other alternatives such as upgrading or subscribe to the online internet more ekstream depending on individual needs to meet the requirements of beginning online learning. Today, there are many competing companies offering different packages of the latest internet speed. Examples of such UNIFI package offered by Telekom Malaysia Berhad. There are three main packages which are offered as VIP5, VIP10 and VIP20 where each one offers advantages and unlimited internet speed to users. With this, there is no problem of slow internet download speeds which became a problem for beginning online Learners.
3.2 Lack of Classroom Interaction – Second
Problem
Some believe the lack of classroom interactions, has been a problem for
beginning online Learners.
Thus, as students
we should handle
the situation wisely and not add any more
problems. Additional reference sources are needed to overcome the lack of classroom interaction
to online Learners
as its own
search for additional information
which can assist in
learning. Online discussions
with the tutors
is the best way.
3.3 Home-Based Distractions – Third Problem
For some online
beginning Learners are unable to escape
from environmental disturbances, such as from the children, work, and so forth. So, look for
a place or a
comfortable and quiet to give us a comprehensive
focus on when learning.
In addition, it can
also teach us how to divide time
between work, family
and yourself to avoid the conflict. Our
efficiency in dealing with these
things play a
very important role. In addition, to ensure that online
learning is not disrupted
by petty things
that can actually be overcome is communication.
Communication is very
important in the face
of a situation that
can not be avoided as well push something
or invitations from anyone from preventing
us to focus
on learning depends
on whether the
state could face all of our own or not.
Although there is a problem in online
learning, in fact there are benefits that
can be learned. The problem
of online learning
can be overcome if
we are wise to
handle any problems. Indirectly, we also
learn how to manage
their time more efficiently.
Whatever it is, this online learning should be more forward and be competitive so we do not miss the back of our ability.
Whatever it is, this online learning should be more forward and be competitive so we do not miss the back of our ability.
(1090 Words)
ATTACHMENT
REFERENCES
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