5 Common Challenges E-Learning Students Face

Since its conception, online learning has offered a lot of benefits. The recent pandemic showed e-learning’s potential as a substitute for normal learning. With the rise of online courses in recent years, students should understand what they’re in for with e-learning, including the challenges to be expected. Here are some issues online students should expect and how to overcome them. 

Digital Literacy

Electronic learning requires students to have some technological background and a good relationship with computers to log in, attend virtual classes and even submit their work for assessment. 

You will also need to understand how to communicate with your professor and classmates. Communication is a large part of e-learning because online communication involves a specific form of etiquette and responsibility. 

To manage this issue, pick an institution that offers a wide variety of support services to reach them when you encounter technical issues or questions. Most institutions provide customer support via email, mobile, or live chat. However, live chat might be the quickest one. 

When submitting files, follow the instructors’ directions for submitting and labeling your files. 

Some of the online class etiquette practices you should know include: 

■ Be respectful to others

■ Avoid sarcasm 

■ Don’t type in all caps; it’s considered yelling

■ Make thoughtful contributions

■ Ask relevant questions

■ Mute your microphone when you’re not speaking

■ Dress appropriately for video conferencing classes

Technical Problems

To attend an online class, you need a strong and consistent internet connection. Weak internet will affect how well you participate in your classes. Wi-fi is easy to find, but the quality in some common places students frequent can be spotty. 

The workaround for internet connection issues is investing in fast internet at home. Coffee shops and even libraries might not have the speeds you need for a seamless connection, but you can test a few spots to confirm. 

Time Management Issues 

Many individuals prefer online courses because of the flexibility and convenience of studying from almost anywhere. The flexible scheduling of classes serves students with other responsibilities but requires one to be good at time management. 

Manage your days well by creating a good schedule that gives you enough time for your studies. Then, avoid distractions such as social media and internet browsing when you’re studying. There are apps for your phone or computer that can help keep you from these distractions. 

Also, avoid multitasking. Complete one task at a time; it’s easier that way, and don’t shy from seeking essay writing help when you feel overwhelmed.  

Motivation 

Learning requires motivation, whether it’s online or in a physical setting. It’s easy to get motivated in physical learning because you are surrounded by your classmates and an instructor. Online learning offers more freedom and flexibility, but you have to draw motivation from within. There is less follow-up, and thus, it’s easy to lose motivation and even start procrastinating. Loss of motivation can make you fall behind in your learning. 

A few simple tricks can help you stay motivated. First, show up to classes and get more involved with your learning. Second, log in frequently to identify any course updates. You can also reach out to other students and share ideas which is an excellent way to motivate each other. 

Finally, motivate yourself through positive self-talk. Encourage yourself to stay focused through positive affirmations. Only you know what drives you; whether it’s family, a dream career, or a better life, visualize it in your mind and use it to encourage yourself to keep going. 

Lack of Timely Feedback 

Feedback is essential in learning, and online learning does not provide the timely feedback you can receive from a physical setting. With distance learning, the response can last days or even weeks, leaving a lot of uncertainty for a student. They might not know what instructors expect of them or their progress and performance in a class. 

Peer review is an excellent way of providing feedback whereby students can respond to each other’s work. Group sessions are also quite effective, especially if conducted verbally because the reaction is instant. 

Final Thoughts 

Online learning has its fair share of challenges and provides opportunities that students can seize to build their future. The above challenges can be managed by collaborating with the different parties involved to create a better online learning system. Nonetheless, you have to put your own efforts to ensure a smooth learning experience.

E-learning will continue developing to be more supportive and convenient. But for now, students should take responsibility and work with what’s present to achieve their goals.

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