Distance learning enables students to access and engage with quality educational content, all from the comfort and convenience of home. Though COVID-related restrictions will likely begin to relax as the pandemic wanes and vaccination rates rise, it seems unlikely that the e-learning industry, which experienced explosive growth in 2020, will become obsolete in 2021. On the contrary, the virtual education industry had a value of $171 billion in 2019 — that is, prior to the coronavirus pandemic — “and is expected to grow [by] 10.85% by 2025,” according to PR Newswire.
While it’s easy to see both the benefits and relevance of distance education, such as increased flexibility, mobility, and affordability, it’s equally important to acknowledge the potential challenges with distance learning for students. From grade-schoolers to graduate students, e-learners at all age levels must overcome obstacles that are unique to virtual education, such as asynchronous communication and ever-present opportunities for time-wasting distractions. E-learners also face challenges that, while often present in the traditional classroom, can be amplified in a virtual setting, such as delayed or unclear instructor feedback.
As an educator or aspiring teacher, it’s important for you not only to understand and empathize with the challenges of online education for students — but even more critically, to help implement effective solutions. While e-learning may pose certain difficulties for students, it also creates exciting educational opportunities, opening doors for young and adult learners alike. To help your students seize these opportunities, learn about the challenges of online distance learning they face — and what steps you can take as a digital instructor to help your e-learners succeed.
What Are the Challenges of Online Learning for Students?
What are the challenges of distance education for students who attend classes online? Here are nine virtual learning disadvantages that educators need to be aware of.
1. Ineffective Time Management
Research has proven that successful “time management is associated with greater academic performance and lower levels of anxiety in students.” Unfortunately, the same research also uncovered that “many students find it hard to find a balance between their studies and their day-to-day lives” — and worse, that ineffective time management was associated with outcomes like “poor sleep patterns” and “increased levels of stress.” Effective time management can be especially difficult in a distance learning environment, where students are challenged to pace themselves — without the support from friends and peers that would help them stay focused in class.
2. Lack of Communication
In an in-person setting, communication happens instantaneously, making it easy for students to get answers and clarify points of confusion. In an e-learning setting, communication is often asynchronous, which means there’s a gap between teacher and student. It’s easy for misunderstandings to develop in these gaps — sometimes, allowing a problem to snowball before it can be corrected.
3. Not Receiving Timely Feedback
Providing feedback is one of the most important and meaningful ways that a teacher engages with a student. When feedback is delayed by additional days or weeks because of an online format, students can become confused or uncertain about your expectations, their progress, and their performance in your class.
4. Not Receiving Clear Instructions or Expectations
It’s always crucial to set clear expectations for students. Otherwise, they can only guess at whether they’re performing tasks and projects correctly. While setting clear standards is a challenge in any classroom, asynchronous communication can make it a greater obstacle.
6. Technical Difficulties
Technical issues represent a significant barrier to effective online learning. Many students face challenges related to inadequate access to technology or unreliable internet connectivity. These technical difficulties can disrupt the learning process, leading to frustration and disengagement. Institutions and educators must ensure that students have access to the necessary technological resources and provide support for those who encounter technical issues. This may include offering alternatives for students with limited access to high-speed internet or providing technical support hotlines.
7. Isolation and Lack of Social Interaction
The absence of physical presence in a classroom setting can lead to feelings of isolation among online learners. The lack of face-to-face interaction with peers and instructors can diminish the sense of community and support that is often found in traditional educational settings. To address this challenge, educators can create opportunities for social interaction through virtual study groups, online discussion boards, and live video conferencing sessions, helping students feel more connected and supported.
8. Adapting to New Learning Styles
Online learning requires students to adapt to new styles of learning that may differ significantly from traditional classroom experiences. This adaptation process can be challenging, as students must become proficient in navigating digital platforms and learning resources. The shift to online learning necessitates the development of new skills, such as researching online databases and effectively communicating through digital mediums. Educators can facilitate this transition by providing comprehensive guides and tutorials on using online learning platforms and digital tools.
9. Distractions at Home
The home environment, while comfortable, is often filled with distractions that can impede the ability to focus on studies. From household chores to social media, numerous distractions can detract from the learning experience. Students must find strategies to minimize these distractions, such as setting up a dedicated study space and using time management tools to allocate specific times for studying. Educators can support students by offering advice on creating an effective learning environment at home and encouraging regular breaks to maintain focus.
Challenges for Adult Learners
Adult learners face a unique set of challenges when engaging in online learning. Balancing work, family responsibilities, and education is a complex juggling act that requires significant time management and organizational skills. Moreover, re-adapting to an educational setting after a prolonged absence from formal learning environments can present additional hurdles. Let’s delve deeper into these challenges and explore strategies to navigate them successfully.
Balancing Work, Family, and Education
The task of balancing work and family responsibilities with educational pursuits is a significant challenge for many adult learners. Unlike traditional students, adult learners often have full-time jobs, family obligations, and other life responsibilities that demand their time and attention. This can make dedicating time to coursework and studying a challenge.
Now that we’ve explored the challenges of online learning for students, let’s focus on something even more important: how to overcome them.