Thanks to COVID-19, remote learning has become routine, and it is often the preferred or even the only way for people to access training or coursework. However, the online format isn't always easy for students or instructors to navigate. The following are some common challenges associated with online learning along with tips for dealing with them effectively.
Interruptions
Many students log in to an online class prepared to learn, with their textbook and favorite note taking app close at hand. Unfortunately, distractions can interrupt even students who are highly focused. Dogs bark, children or siblings need attention, and parents or spouses come by asking questions. Online teachers need to expect that their students will have some distractions that are beyond the students' control. Providing frequent short breaks and offline practice activities can give students time to deal with interruptions. Students need to do their best to get their family members' support in protecting their class time.
Technical Problems
Teachers and students are equally likely to encounter frustrating technical problems during an online class. Sometimes, computers drop the wi-fi connection or crash and have to be restarted. In a video-conferencing format like Zoom, participants may have issues with their camera or microphone that makes it hard for them to participate. Organizations can prevent many of these problems by providing training for instructors and students at the beginning of the course. Teachers can help students who are having technical difficulties by providing alternative solutions, like a recording of a class meeting or an extended deadline.
Lack Of Communication
Online students often comment that they miss the face-to-face interaction they have with fellow students and instructors in the classroom. Class discussion and one-on-one conversations with the teacher can contribute a lot to a student's learning. For many students, an online class doesn't really replace in-person interactions. Fortunately, most video-conferencing software has features that can promote better communication. For example, teachers and students can meet one-on-one during virtual office hours. Large Zoom classes can be separated into break-out rooms of just three or four students each.
Scheduling Difficulties
When students have jobs and/or care-giving responsibilities, it can sometimes be hard for them to attend class in person or online. One of the benefits of remote learning is that students can do more of the work when and where it's most convenient. Teachers should consider structuring classes in a blended format, combining synchronous learning (i.e., online class meetings) with asynchronous learning (i.e., activities and assignments that students complete on their own).
Lack Of Motivation
Despite the convenience of online learning, many students struggle with a lack of motivation. Some may also be dealing with executive dysfunction, since executive skills don't fully develop until students are in their twenties. Executive skills include things like time management, organization, goal-setting, and remembering details. Without these skills, students find learning to be challenging, especially in an online environment. It can help if students set up a home office, a space they will use only for doing schoolwork. It can also help to practice using tools like an online calendar and task list.
To get the most out of online learning, teachers and students alike need to adapt themselves to the format rather than trying to mimic a traditional face-to-face classroom. Online tools have their own unique advantages. With the right planning, instructors can overcome the challenges of teaching online, and students can have a rewarding educational experience.