We live in a time where everything is quite literally at our fingertips. Access to online learning has taken distance education to next-level digitalization. All credit goes to AI integration and the latest edtech solutions. To give an idea of how vast the online education market is, here are some important stats-
- The global online learning market will reach approximately $203.8 billion by the end of 2025.
- The online distance learning market will have a 15.9% penetration of new students.
- 70% of students express a preference for an online learning environment. Why? The online learning environment offers better accessibility and affordability.
But here’s the irony! The concept of e-learning was meant to slowly replace the classroom learning environment. But, the challenges of online classes still found their way to students. Despite e-learning benefits, students face challenges while taking online programs along the way. These challenges vary according to their individual situations. Plus, adjusting to virtual classrooms can be difficult for some learners. In this blog, we’ll explore common problems in online learning and offer practical solutions.
The Biggest Challenges of Online Classes Faced by Students - Overview
The online learning method is an umbrella term. It comprises different modes of delivering education to learners. The challenges of online classes come with each learning style.
At its basic level, a student receives their education through two modes-
- Synchronous learning is an interactive, live teaching method. It mimics in-person instruction with real-time participation and discussions, regardless of the location.
- Asynchronous learning comes with a self-paced environment. You can access course materials and submit homeworks and assignments anytime.
Now, the introduction of these methods was to meet to student’s learning preferences. Nevertheless, the downsides of each type still persist. Each type presents a unique set of challenges of taking online classes.
Apart from synchronous and asynchronous learning, other online learning methods include:
- Microlearning – This online format of education delivers short, bite-sized lessons for easy understanding.
- Mobile learning – Provides course content through mobile apps for on-the-go access.
- Gamification – Uses game elements to make classes more engaging while giving access to the necessary learning elements.
While all of these methods sound great, not all students can easily adapt. Alongside benefits, each mode presents learning challenges. Factors such as personal preference, lifestyle, learning speed, and ability to keep pace- all matter when it comes to getting used to online learning. And this is the point when online students face difficulty and start seeking external help with online class.
In the next section, we will briefly discuss the common challenges of online classes according to each mode of e-learning.
What are Some of The Challenges When Taking Online Classes?
We have explored various online learning types. Some students struggle with certain learning styles. So, let’s discuss 4 specific challenges that each method presents-
1. Challenges Of Online Classes in Synchronous Mode
Synchronous learning helps students stay engaged during distance learning. It encourages active participation in live classes. This method is similar to in-person lectures. For in-person learners, it’s a great alternative. Live sessions allow real-time discussions and interactions.
Now the challenges of online classes for students with this method are-
- These classes take place at a scheduled time. Therefore, synchronous mode lacks flexibility while accessing an online course.
- Time zone differences are among the biggest challenges Of Online Classes. This creates participation challenges for online learners.
- In some cases, online students struggle to find quiet spaces for a seamless learning experience.
- Furthermore, sudden internet problems and technical issues can also disrupt the learning.
- If you don’t attend classes regularly, missed lectures will lead to comprehension gaps.
- Plus, if classes aren’t recorded, valuable lessons are lost.
- Sometimes, time management also becomes difficult, especially for working professionals. Also, students who juggle multiple courses together also struggle with time management.
2. Asynchronous Online Learning Challenges For Students
Asynchronous learning is mostly similar to live classes (but without real-time interaction). Even if it doesn’t have a fixed schedule for classes, students must still meet deadlines and due dates. The best part is that it allows students to learn at their own pace. This method offers flexibility for busy schedules.
Now let’s talk about the challenges of taking online classes in Asynchronous learning.
- A major challenge is limited interaction. Due to this, students miss the opportunity to interact with others students and teachers. This leads to the feeling of isolation.
- Getting instructor feedback can take time. Also, delayed responses can slow learning progress.
- The lack of structure may cause confusion. For example, these are mostly pre-recorded sessions. The type of instruction delivery is generic.
- Since they can attend classes from anywhere, students struggle to stay motivated and focused. They are often drawn to online distractions during classes.
3. Challenges Of Online Classes With Microlearning and Mobile Learning (M Learning) Courses
Micro learning process helps students grasp concepts quickly. Plus, Learning on smartphones is a breakthrough in the education industry. This type of dynamic learning works enables students who prefer learning on the go. Lessons are short and easy to digest (mostly presented through 10-15-minute pre-recorded sessions). But this mode presents unique challenges of online classes for students-
- Learning complex topics becomes difficult. Also, there’s no student and teachers interaction.
- If you are taking M Learning classes online, you will face content compatibility issues. eLearning content doesn’t always fit mobile devices.
- Deep comprehension of concepts is missing. The short courses only cover surface-level knowledge. Online classes on problems and solutions are not explicative.
- Some students even have reported that these classes have poor course design. This causes further ambiguity and confusion in the online learning journey.
- Additional challenges in mobile learning include studying through small screens. A student may find it hard to read small texts on a phone.
- Lastly, fragmented learning makes retention harder for successful online learning. For serious traditional students, tracking progress during distance education programs can be challenging.
4. Challenges of Taking Online Classes Through Game-based Programs
Gamification online learning for students uses games for educational purposes. The online environment of game-based learning mostly caters to children. However, this “mandatory fun” also has its challenges. It may keep users engaged, but students allocate their time focusing on rewards instead of learning. Plus, technical difficulties can also arise. Problems with accessibility or usability may occur. These issues can deter learners from participating. Also, these are the top signs you need to hire someone to take your online class.
Note:
So far, we have seen how these 4 types of online distance learning modes pose unique challenges. It is very interesting to note that these Challenges Of Online Classes are all linked to the following 5 different areas of concern that almost all online students encounter. Let’s discuss the challenges that students face along with solutions:
5. Time Management To Balance Daily Tasks and Studies
- Set a consistent schedule and follow it.
- Include mini breaks to avoid burnout.
- Make a list of priority tasks. Next, focus on the most important tasks first.
- Set early deadlines to avoid last-minute stress.
- In unique situations, you can even hire an expert to attend your online classes. (Only suggested if the course is basic, but the certification is mandatory).
6. Distractions
Challenges of taking Online Classes also include distractions. When learning online at home, students find it hard to avoid distractions like TV, food, or roommates, online distractions. Plus, social media and mobile notifications make constant interruptions. To stay focused, here are some solutions-
- Create a quiet, distraction-free study area.
- Use social media blockers during study sessions.
- Share your schedule with others to stay accountable.
- Leave your phone in another room while studying.
7. Technical Issues
- Check if you have the right technology. If not, see if the school offers technical help.
- Use a reliable internet provider for fast speed. You can use public Wi-Fi if necessary.
- Google can help solve tech problems.
- Teachers should provide guides and tips. Recording classes helps if students miss lessons.
8. Personal Barriers
The biggest challenge of online classes faced by students with a physical disability is accessibility. Students with dyslexia, autism, or impairments need extra support. But don’t worry! Online learning is flexible and inclusive. If needed, one can ask for accommodations from the course creator. They will likely assist with improving accessibility. Some online schools even come up with these strategies to overcome these challenges:
- Provide captions for audio and video content. This helps students with hearing impairments.
- Add voice-over descriptions for text and images.
- Offer keyboard shortcuts for certain tasks.
- Use AI-powered personal assistants for students with special needs.
- Hold additional office hours for extra help.
- Offer assignment extensions for students who need them.
9. Isolation and Lack of Motivation
Lastly, Challenges Of Online Classes come with a sense of isolation, often leading to a lack of motivation. Enrolling in an online class makes students feel isolated. Zoom or Google Meet doesn’t match the in-person interactions. This is why asynchronous learning often experiences an engagement drop. Plus, demotivation stems from the absence of a physical classroom setting. The lack of urgency makes deadlines feel distant. This frequently leads to procrastination. Students may struggle to stay on task. But don’t worry, here are the solutions-
- Engage in networking. Participate in chats and forums.
- Interact actively. Join discussions, group projects, and more.
- Practice positive affirmations. Boost motivation with self-talk.
- Participate in class. Ask questions and debate actively.
Miscommunication- A Challenge of Taking Online Classes for Both Students and The Tutors (Solutions)
What are some challenges for students and teachers when taking online classes? Miscommunication! Students often struggle to reach instructors after class. This leads to delays in getting answers. For teachers, maintaining real-time interaction is challenging after the class. This is because communication is mainly limited to scheduled sessions.
Many students also hesitate to ask questions during live sessions. Various factors like shyness and fear of judgment are the reason behind this. Some students usually even overthink the uncertainty about whether their question is relevant. And end up remaining silent throughout the class despite having doubts in mind. Lastly, sometimes, dealing with a high volume of student inquiries can be overwhelming for teachers. This problem worsens if students and teachers are in different time zones.
Solution Tips for Students
Most answers are likely in the syllabus. Review the course outline to find solutions. Next, Post your questions in student groups. A peer may have already asked or solved it.
Solution Tips For Course Creators
A designated office hours should be set. Many online schools have adopted support CMS portals to streamline communication. This eradicates the issue of miscommunication while ensuring that students receive timely responses.
Solution Tips for Teachers
Set clear expectations for response times. Teachers can also contact the course creator to integrate and use an automated reply plug-in. Having a pre-made FAQ set makes handling common questions easy.
Conclusion
While these challenges of online classes persist, solutions are also available. Besides the obstacles, completing courses is mandatory. Sometimes, enrolling in online classes happens only to get certification. If the student is already facing these issues, other solutions exist. One can hire experts to complete online courses for them. This way, you can focus on your immediate priorities. Someone else will take the Challenges Of Online Classes. Online Class Help offers such solutions to students. Here, you can connect with professionals well-versed in online education portals. They can help you complete your online courses, including taking exams. You can rest assured that your academics are in expert’s hands!