Since the pandemic, online classes have grown in popularity, but the real question is whether they are better than traditional in-person learning.
The shift to online learning became necessary in 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic forced schools and universities around the world to close their campuses. Suddenly, millions of students and teachers had to adapt to virtual classrooms, often with little preparation. This rapid transition sparked widespread discussion about the benefits and drawbacks of online education.
At SUNY Cortland, most classes are still offered in person, giving students the traditional classroom experience. However, a growing number of courses now also provide the option to attend asynchronously, meaning students can complete all coursework online at their own pace.
While online classes have gained a lot of popularity since the global pandemic, there is still a significant debate about their effectiveness. Many argue that online courses can lack the personal interaction and immediate feedback that traditional classrooms provide, which can make it harder for students to stay engaged and motivated. On the other hand, proponents highlight the flexibility and convenience of online learning, which allows students to balance schoolwork with jobs, internships, or family responsibilities.
While both sides of the debate offer strong arguments and valid points, I believe that many students would agree that online courses, despite their flexibility and convenience, often create more challenges than advantages. Although virtual classes allow students to complete work on their own schedules, the structure can sometimes feel as though individuals are essentially teaching themselves, with limited direct support or interaction from professors. This lack of immediate clarification and reduced classroom engagement often means students must invest extra time and effort to fully grasp the material.
Ironically, what is intended to be a more convenient and accessible learning format can end up requiring greater self-discipline, independence, and motivation than traditional in-person classes, which provide a built-in structure and constant opportunities for discussion and feedback.
I have also spoken with a few of my friends who have taken both online and in-person courses, and they generally agree with my perspective that online classes are far less beneficial. They explained that it is harder to stay focused during virtual lectures and that group discussions and interactions with professors are not as effective online. According to their experiences, the lack of hands-on engagement can make it difficult to fully understand the material.
Although online classes can be very convenient and help fulfill various credits, I feel that I don’t get as much out of them than an in person class. For me, I do better when I take handwritten notes and hear the professor’s lecture, instead of just reading a slideshow on my computer. -Hannah Barry Current SUNY Cortland Student
When taking online classes, I feel like I’m going through the motions but not learning anything. – Tauri Fitzgerald current TCCC student
Personally even though their the easier alternative for students with other priorities than academics they don’t provide the full academic support to obtain as much knowledge as possible. -Lidia Vasquez-Sinisi Manhattanville University student
I think that while beneficial, online classes can be very difficult. They require students to use a lot more of their knowledge and attention than an in-person class. -Eden kadosh Current Ohio University Student