Is online learning an effective and equitable pedagogical tool?

Argumentative Essay Sample

Online learning is an effective and equitable pedagogical tool. Do you agree?

Learning is a lifelong process and no one should be hindered from receiving education. To say education is important is an understatement since its roles go beyond imagination. There are a bunch of pedagogical tools available in the teaching and learning process including online learning which frequently being utilized. Nonetheless, I  take issue with the statement that online learning is an effective and equitable pedagogical tool.

 As its name suggests, a strong internet connection and portable electronic devices are the requisites for online learning. This implies obvious inequality towards unfortunate students who cannot meet these demands. Plus, an unstable internet connection will inevitably give rise to a hitch which may disturb the learning process. Consequently, the students are left wound up. 

 Opponents claim that online learning provides flexibility and thus, a better opportunity to concentrate. However, as it is a solitary process, students will be easily diverted from studying due to various types of distractions. On top of that, learners need to work more autonomously and have weak support mechanisms due to the absence of study buddies. This results in an adverse impact on students’ motivation and hence, fruitless learning attempts. 

  To evaluate in terms of students’ engagement, online learning is generally a one-way communication. As it is a type of passive learning, students’ involvement is limited. Students get no chance to experience hands-on and to apply the knowledge accurately. Additionally, an insubstantial amount of educators’ body language and facial expressions have proven to reduce the effectiveness of the learning process. As a whole, the effectiveness of the learning process has been reduced.

 Selecting the most suitable pedagogical tool is undoubtedly a crucial factor in determining students’ success. Educators need to do a thorough evaluation before choosing a teaching tool. The tool should be made accessible to all students. Therefore, no student should be excluded from the education system.

Glossary

Hinder: to limit the ability of someone to do something, or to limit the development of something

Understatement: a statement that describes something in a way that makes it seem less important, serious, bad, etc. than it really is, or the act of making such statements

Pedagogical: relating to the methods and theory of teaching

Take issue: to disagree strongly with someone or something

Requisite: necessary or needed for a particular purpose

Hitch: a temporary difficulty that causes a short delay

Wound up: very worried, nervous, or angry

Autonomously: independent and having the power to make your own decisions

Insubstantial: not enough or not strong enough