We are going through an era of significant technological advancement. Some people call it a disaster, while some refer to it as a blessing for humanity. As the years pass by, technology is becoming a crucial part of our lives. Thanks to technological advancement, which is now helping the students with distance learning.
However, it is also causing hindrance with numerous challenges for the new and existing distance learning students. The latest COVID-19 has imposed many obstacles to the people around the globe. Government and health authorities are still struggling to curb the spread of the virus. For that, many educational institutions are sending the students back home for online learning.
Studying online might seem like a walk in the park. However, it also comes with its fair share of troubles and challenges for students and instructors. Distance learning allows students to study and pursue education within the comfort of their homes. The disruptions from the latest COVID-19 pandemic has escalated its importance even further.
Many people avail the opportunities provided by distance learning to expand their careers and acquire new skills. Along with these opportunities, therein lies the unforeseen challenges to adopting and focusing on distance learning.
However, that doesn’t mean there are no challenges that come with this type of learning too. Distance learning has its own unique challenges that every student needs to know about. In this post, we have compiled the common challenges and difficulties of distance learning and how you can overcome them. So let’s get straight into them.
Common Challenges of Distance Learning and How to Overcome Them
Adapting to virtual classrooms
Staying focused while attending lectures from the comfort of your bed is extremely difficult. Many students report the problems to adopt into the virtual classroom. With more and more students learning through online mediums, the concept of traditional classroom setup is long gone.
The conventional classrooms motivate individuals for self-discipline and focused learning. However, virtual lectures lack all these features by putting the individuals in front of the screen.
The learning process is entirely different in the virtual classrooms as compared to the physical ones. It is not a problem for schools and colleges. Still, many people who consider distance learning for career advancement also face challenges. Students who cannot travel extensively or suffer illness always opt for distance learning.
Online learning provides them the opportunity to earn an accredited high school diploma online to ensure they do not face any breaks. Distance learning limits the emotional and physical connection of communication between learners and instructors.
However, you can still overcome the situation through different strategies. Creating your schedule for studying and sitting in a separate room can help you achieve the traditional classroom setup. As per professionals’ recommendations, never hesitate to ask questions in the virtual classrooms. Integrate your thoughts with the study material provided by the instructors to expand your learning.
Distractions
Both existing and new students always mention the problems of a distracting environment in distance learning. Although the convenience of studying from home is the best opportunity every student can have. It also creates issues of lack of motivation through distractions. While attending distance lectures, students tend to check their Instagram and Whatsapp. The Internet is a distracting place for students who are new to online classrooms.
However, incorporating some elements into your daily lectures can assist you in reducing these distractions. Creating a study plan for attending the classes and studying them every day is essential for expanded learning.
You can disable the Internet on your mobile phones during the timeline to avoid distracting over consistent notifications. Moreover, you can also install different software and browser extensions to block off the websites that distract you the most.
Time management
Time management is also a crucial factor in distance learning. Just because you are learning online does not mean you will have all the time to cover the lectures and workload provided by instructors. Of course, distance learning adds the flexibility to earn the education in your schedule. Time management can assist the students in broadening their skills and achieving their career goals. Those students working on a full-time job are required to structure their days for attending lectures and studying. This pressure for time management can put the individuals cramming during online courses.
However, marking your important days on the calendar for assignment submissions and exams can overcome the stress. Plan the hectic schedule of the day to adhere yourself to the time. This plan must include the lecture and study schedule, breaks, and time you surf on the Internet. On the other side, setting reminders for your objectives will also help you stick to your studies and avoid cramming.
Communication in distance learning
The restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic has put everyone in front of screens to communicate and connect with peers. But what about distance learning? Many people think that technology has made distance learning more feasible since communication is more direct online. However, the real situation is entirely contrary to the common belief. Most of the students face self-isolation challenges in the virtual world, which leads to fatigue and other severe side effects
Distance learning may lack face-to-face interaction, but it puts every student in the front row. It means you can avail the opportunity to ask questions and interact with the instructor. Active participation in distance learning can help you with increased productivity and practical learning.
Key Takeaway
Distance learning serves the role of a double-edged sword. Moreover, these problems are unavoidable. However, effective strategies can aid in overcoming these challenges with the balance in daily education.
