With the ever onward march of tech, we see different aspects of our society shaping and evolving thanks to the new technological breakthroughs that allow us to accomplish tasks faster and more efficiently. Although it may lag considerably, education is no different and is slowly beginning to accept change.

There are many ways educators can conduct their lessons, and online learning is a viable method that most now accept with open arms. Of course, there are some disadvantages to it, a few of which will be discussed in this piece. If you would like to read more about the advantages and disadvantages of online learning, we recommend reading here.

What Is Online learning?

Simply put, online learning is electronic learning. It is a way of hosting a class or lesson by electronic means across a range of devices. There are applications and/or tools that can help you to make these online courses simulate a classroom. You can use an LMS, Learning Management System, to merge traditional learning with newer tech, allowing contemporary teens and kids to better grapple with their lessons.

The Challenge of the Senses

Although it is certainly a great way to educate, online learning is not without its faults. Many are quick to jump the gun and criticize online learning because its disadvantages can be severe for learners and educators.

One of the important problems to note with online learning is the lack of feedback for most senses that would otherwise typically be stimulated in a traditional classroom. Almost all your senses are triggered in a traditional classroom. There is tactile feedback from your notes and pens and pencils, to hearing and sight being stimulated through the teaching done in front of you. In a classroom, your mind is reinforced by what is around you, and you then know, either consciously or subconsciously, that now is the time to pay attention.

However, when you aren’t in a classroom, but rather sitting at home in your room, you are suddenly in a space that is familiar to you as a place to relax and be comfortable in. This is a prime location for your mind to wander and become distracted easily. It is easy to lose concentration at home.

How to Combat Distractions

There are a few ways to combat distractions, but there is very little that the educator can do alone. You can try your best to make your lessons as engaging, accessible and as easy to grasp as possible. You can also try to minimize the chances of someone wandering off. Still, you will need to rely on your learners to take responsibility, steel themselves against their environment and focus on online courses.

Conclusion
Online learning has various advantages, but it also comes with a noteworthy risk. It requires an extra level of responsibility for all involved, and it also requires the right kind of person to take part. It isn’t for everyone, so be sure to be as inclusive as possible. Here are some tips on how to make your online courses more accessible to all.