OPINION: VIRTUAL LEARNING: THE PRODUCTIVITY GAME-CHANGER?

By Onyinyechi Obike

As an undergraduate in this age of digital innovation, it’s undeniable that you’ve likely experienced online classes or accessed educational resources on the internet.

Technology has consistently offered solutions to real-world challenges, especially in education. Its benefits range from facilitating accessible learning across geographical barriers to enhancing learning during times of physical restrictions. It also allows for the reallocation of resources to other vital areas instead of solely relying on transportation to educational institutions.

For freshmen at the University of Ibadan transitioning from five weeks of virtual learning to in-person instruction, the allure of physical classes may be strong, given the demands of registration, juggling various activities and studies, managing finances, and facing lengthy class schedules.

Traditional learning has existed since ancient civilizations and holds a significant place in the annals of history. Its foundational principles are built upon:   

• Face-to-Face Instruction: Direct interaction between teachers and students.
• In-Person Lectures and Discussions: Fostering Real-Time Engagement and Communication.
• Physical Textbooks and Materials: Providing tangible resources for learning.
• Classroom-Oriented Activities and Tasks: Facilitating collaborative learning and structured learning experiences.

This learning approach is advantageous in ensuring effective knowledge dissemination from the lecturer to the students. It also allows for the assessment of student body language and expressions, fostering understanding and connections through direct communication. However, traditional learning has gradually become rigid and formal, potentially hindering effective assimilation and creativity among students. This has led to a growing interest in alternative learning methods, such as homeschooling and online classes.

The move towards virtual learning is not surprising, as humans naturally seek efficient alternatives that prioritize convenience and productivity. Traditional classrooms are being gradually replaced, despite their effectiveness over centuries. It’s important to acknowledge the limitations of traditional learning, which include:

• Limited Flexibility: Traditional classrooms often lack the flexibility to accommodate self-paced learning, a crucial aspect of individual learning styles and assimilation. Students with special needs, such as dyslexia, require tailored approaches to aid their understanding.
• Restricted Feedback and Responses: With a large number of students learning together, it’s inevitable that a lecturer’s attention will be divided, limiting individualized feedback and progress assessments.
• High Transportation Costs: Nigeria’s economy has experienced a rapid decline and escalating living expenses, placing a significant burden on students and lecturers when it comes to traditional learning’s associated transportation costs.
• Resource Constraints: While physical classes are a cornerstone of traditional education, the reliance on hardcopy textbooks and materials can be burdensome. Carrying heavy materials around campus can hinder convenience and mobility, especially when extensive research is required. Virtual learning programs offer a more convenient and efficient way to access vast resources.
• Suppressed Creativity: Classroom structures often prioritize adherence to rigid schemes, stifling individual creativity and problem-solving skills. Instead of nurturing critical thinking abilities, the focus shifts to filling gaps dictated by the educational institution.

Virtual Learning: A Viable Alternative

Virtual learning, or e-learning, refers to the integration of digital resources and technologies to facilitate learning and education. It encompasses online lectures, online courses, and internet-based learning materials. Virtual learning environments are typically self-paced and adaptable to individual needs, and offers personalized assessments. The key features of virtual learning include:

• Up-to-Date Content: Virtual learning platforms offer access to constantly updated course outlines and learning materials, reflecting the latest information and advancements in various fields.
• Access to Vast Resources: The internet provides a wealth of learning materials, including online libraries, research databases, and multimedia resources, all readily available to virtual learners.
• Interactive Learning Experiences: Virtual learning environments often utilize interactive elements like simulations, online quizzes, and collaborative projects, enhancing engagement and knowledge retention.
• Flexible Learning Options: Students can learn at their own pace, choosing their preferred learning times and environments, contributing to greater flexibility and autonomy.
• Bridging Time and Space Barriers: Virtual learning transcends geographical limitations, allowing students to access lectures and resources regardless of their location, as long as they have an internet connection.

Benefits of Virtual Learning include:

• Cost Savings: Eliminating the need for commuting reduces transportation costs, making education more accessible and affordable.
• Personalised Engagement: Virtual learning environments often allow for direct interaction with instructors and personalized feedback, enhancing individual learning experiences.
• Increased Convenience: Students can learn from anywhere at any time, fitting learning into their busy schedules and personal preferences.
• Scalability: Virtual learning platforms can accommodate a large number of students simultaneously, enabling educational institutions to reach a wider audience.
• Enhanced Productivity: By freeing up time and resources, virtual learning encourages students to explore their interests, pursue self-development opportunities, and maximize their productivity.

Institutions in Nigeria should consider the multifaceted benefits of e-learning and incorporate it into their educational environments. While virtual learning may have its drawbacks, its potential for improving student outcomes and adapting to the demands of the 21st century is undeniable. The future of education likely involves a harmonious blend of traditional and virtual learning approaches, ensuring that students have access to the most effective learning methods to achieve their full potential.