Distance learning is an ever-valuable tool that is growing in necessity as markets and industries evolve. In a period of crisis like the Coronavirus pandemic, online education becomes invaluable, empowering countless students and staff who rely on studying to further themselves. When the world comes to a halt in a united effort to curb the spread of COVID-19, distance learning emerges as not only a viable way to continue your education, but also one of the most appropriate ways to invest your time.

Overcoming the learning challenges posed by a pandemic

Those who are capable of managing their economic impact should prioritize education and learning, taking up the challenge of adopting distance learning as the primary model of education for the rest of the school year. Yes. There will be challenges inherent to this method of learning, but there is no denying the immense academic progress possible. Students need to be equipped with actionable resources that let them continue to achieve academic goals. With over 300 million students around the world disrupted by the Coronavirus, we have no choice but to innovate. One should, however, see this shift as a challenging opportunity ready to be seized rather than a forced adaptation.

Successful distance learning

Successful distance learning instills a learner with motivation and support for every part of the journey. From equipping them with the technology and skills needed to work effectively in a distance learning environment to developing a means of measuring performance that goes beyond what’s available in standardized exams – distance learning creates opportunities to address real-world challenges early in life. Learners are empowered with not only accessible education but academics directly connected to the “real world” as well.

Distance learning difficulties

Even it situations whereby learns are faced with equity challenges, distance learning provides a degree of education guaranteeing that each learner receives something instead of nothing at all. No matter how constrained the benefits may be because of factors like poverty and limited internet access, schools and educators can still make every effort to supply dedicated education that remains informative and beneficial.

Distance learning resources

Educators will be happy to know that global earning institutions and other teachers have made tons of resources readily available online. No matter what type of education is needed, there’s a wealth of information specifically created to assist in this time of crisis. Learners and educators will find sample schedules, worksheets, printables, and additional training materials for every discipline and area of education. There are resources for psycho social support, digital learning management, mobile phone learning tools, tons of offline applications and printable documentation, open and paid online course platforms, self-directed content for learning from around the world, and collaboration platforms that facilitate a classroom-like environment – Just look at Zoom, Skype, Teams & Hangouts. There has never been a better time for teachers to create impressive, practical digital learning content together.

Online education flexibility

It is important to remember that there is going to be a degree of flexibility when it comes to online education. This, in itself, is of great help both during a crisis and during the functioning of “normal” society.  Instead of having rigid periods of education, many online classes have their pace set by the student or students. A course that should take a quarter can run for a year, or vice versa. Conventional classrooms cannot accommodate this type of flexibility, which is especially useful to both special needs students and exceptional learners.

Adjusting to distance learning

Online educators, students, and families should keep in mind that working online for someone new is going to come with a learning curve. One first needs to be comfortable and familiar with technology and online education platforms, apps, and services before the actual learning can begin. Formal education providers such as universities and colleges who offer an online syllabus usually provide their online platform teachers with up to six-months’ worth of training to guarantee complete competency. At the same time, distance learning itself is less complicated once you know the technology. For many people, there will be no learning curve to speak of. Once teaching, learning, or working online, in general, has been grasped, there is no limit to the potential productivity you can reach nor the efficacy of academics.

Working together for a better tomorrow

Families, learners, and teachers need to work together to make sure that learning continues. Digital education resources and distance learning that puts a teacher and student in a one-on-one situation are the greatest asset that academics have during a period of struggle. As we battle the spread of COVID-19 together, we are growing stronger in subtle ways. Teachers identify academic challenges easier, and students work according to their unique strengths thanks to the individual attention.