What Have We Learned about Online Learning?

Overall, students and faculty who had more support did better during online learning times.

In the pandemic era, online learning grew tremendously as schools were forced to adopt it. With this came problems rooted in the digital divide, such as students not having adequate resources to “get to” class or turn in assignments. In some cases, even teachers and educators did not have resources. In other aspects, such as support services, going online helped students access and use them more easily, as they could have easier access to them. Similarly, lower costs using online textbooks, cheaper classroom resources, and “personalized, targeted instructions to students” was beneficial to students. Flexibility in online learning was favored by some students, especially those who had other responsibilities, while others preferred face-to-face options.

Overall, students and faculty who had more support did better during online learning. Thus, training and practicing to provide support for students is crucial to offering students a better online experience. Lastly, the two interviewees hope to see “technology enhanced learning as the future.” There are new opportunities to improve and enhance learning through technology, which the industry should take and incorporate student needs into, so that better learning can take place.