Online learning is the latest educational trend that has taken over the world of education. Students choose online learning for different reasons. Some prefer it because it’s more convenient. This is because online classes allow them to complete their education without missing too many days at school.
Physical learning is also widely referred to as “in-person” learning. This requires that lessons be taken face-to-face with the instructor.

Pros of Virtual learning over physical learning
Often times, online learning is self-paced, and as such, lessons can be taken at your convenience.

Online learning is relatively convenient and accessible. You can learn whenever and wherever you want, without regard to time constraints. Online learning creates an allowance for taking breaks when needed on an individual basis. Physical learning tends to employ a “one size fits all” approach. As a result, strict rules are in place about when classes are to be held, when breaks are to be taken, etc. This benefit of online learning is great for people who struggle with focus and need more time to complete their coursework. Plus, it’s easier to create your own schedule when you learn online and control your pace of progress.

On the other hand, physical learning requires you to be present for lessons at specific times. This is because, in contrast to online lesson resources, which can be accessed at any time and multiple times, student-teacher interaction cannot be repeated.

Also, tuition for online learning is relatively cheaper when compared to in-person learning. There are quite a lot of institutions that offer free tuition for their learning programs. A typical example is the Side Hustle Internship.

However, there are downsides to choosing online learning instead of physical learning.

Cons of Online Learning over Physical Learning
Getting distracted in the middle of an online class is not uncommon. This can cause a major lag in the completion time for an online course. A quick glance at the notification pop-up on your device can lead to hours of internet browsing. Consequently, what would normally be covered in 2 hours might take over 48 hours to complete.

Physical learning allows for better student-teacher engagement. Real-time questions and answers are possible. It is also easier to follow up on pending conversations. In an online learning environment, questions can be raised, but answers are not guaranteed.

Recommendation
When deciding between online and physical learning; it is important to consider factors such as;

Current engagements

Typical Daily schedule

Concentration span

Traditionally, most formal courses are taken in physical sessions. Online courses are typically taken to supplement your knowledge in a specific field or to advance or reskill in a specific track. Online learning platforms frequently provide training in high-value in-demand and tech skills. It is important to note that the modern workforce has a strong demand for skills like product design and data analytics, product managers etc.

In Nigeria where students hardly go for lectures and lecturers won't lecture them but just deliver handouts, distance learning isn't a bad idea. Why pay so much to learn a skill you may never put to use when you can go for a cheaper, time efficient and more convenient option of distance/virtual learning?

The absense of much desired practicals isn't helping neither. If I have to just sit with with a group of people and listen for four or five years while paying so much to be in an overcrowded hall at specific times which may not even suite my biological clock, then I might as well go for virtual learning options.