Advancements in modern technology have made digital learning possible, especially over the past few decades. With recent changes to our global health and climate, we’ve also seen an increase in online learning. And while this was first met with positivity, it quickly became negative due to the prolonged periods of social quarantine, coupled with extended hours of students on a screen.
However, despite some of the drawbacks around online learning, there are so many benefits.
When students are able to access material remotely, they are less pressured to be in a physical space and can truly work at their own pace. They are also able to use resources and be connected to other spaces, people, and perspectives they would otherwise not be aware of.
While remote learning isn’t for everyone, of course, there are some significant benefits that students, teachers, and parents can all embrace. Here are some reasons why you may want to consider remote learning for your child, now or in the future.
1. Have More Control
Students can have a greater say over their education when they take classes online. By learning remotely, students can access their learning in their most comfortable environment, which not only benefits students desiring to control their physical space, but also for those who may live a far distance or dealing with other physical/mental challenges that inhibit in-person learning.
Remote education also allows for learning to occur at moments when their interest, motivation, and engagement are at their highest. In general, students (and their parents) can have more control and be able to tailor the curriculum, classes, and pace to their needs.
2. Build Important Future Skills
Life skills are emphasized in a remote learning environment, especially as students grow and are given more independent assignments. Children can gain skills in time management, multitasking, responsibility, and autonomous learning when they receive remote learning in a safe and stable setting; they are all, arguably, essential for academic and lifelong success.
Students gain these abilities because they are expected to log on as needed and complete assignments without the same kind of “hand-holding” they receive in a traditional classroom setting. Not only this, but since remote ways of communication are so prevalent, for example, with telehealth appointments from Physio Inq and other health services, being confident with this type of communication will help in many different areas of life.
3. Less Social Anxiety
According to research conducted by Arizona State University, SAD (Social Anxiety Disorder) affects roughly 15 million people in the United States. Cases typically emerge at the age of 13, when adolescents are going through significant developmental changes.
If a child is having difficulties in school (on any level!), whether academic, physical, or mental, they may not necessarily have to miss out on an education. A virtual classroom could be the solution for pupils who struggle with social anxiety. Students won’t miss out on the social aspects either, as they can gain confidence and develop peer relationships through engaging in text and video chats with one another.
4. Accessibility
The idea of accessibility extends further than mere geographical location. Students in a wide variety of settings can now keep studying thanks to the proliferation of digital learning resources.
Students with physical or mental disabilities, or those with impaired immune systems, have greater access to educational opportunities thanks to the rise of online and distance learning. It also aids in providing those who are deaf or hard of hearing with the same educational opportunities as those who are not.
5. Easy Catch Up
One of the most noticeable advantages of remote learning is that students, especially those with moderate learning impairments like dyslexia or ADHD, can easily catch up on missed material or review previously covered material thanks to the availability of a wide range of instructional technologies.
Students can learn at their own pace, avoid feeling overwhelmed by a large amount of material, and be more comfortable asking questions and clarifying concepts because they can pause and rewind classes as much as they choose.
While remote learning isn’t for everyone, it’s important to understand the benefits (and not just the drawbacks).
Did you know that we also offer digital learning options? Check out our Flexible Learning Options to see what might be right for you!
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