This past week’s class got me thinking about the pros and cons of virtual learning. As someone who has experienced both online and in-person classes, I’ve come to appreciate the unique benefits and challenges that each format presents.
The Pros and Cons of Online LearningOnline learning has become an integral part of education, offering convenience and flexibility. One of the biggest advantages is the ability to attend class from home. There’s no commute, which saves time, and it’s easier to take notes and follow along with slides. I’ve also noticed that attendance tends to be higher in online classes—perhaps because it removes barriers like transportation or scheduling conflicts. Another great aspect is the ability to bring in guest speakers from anywhere in the world. In a past class, I remember students attending from as far as China, making for a diverse and engaging learning environment.
However, online learning isn’t without its downsides. Group discussions can sometimes feel awkward, and there’s often a hesitation to turn cameras on, something that has frustrated professors in the past. Distractions at home can also be an issue—I know I’ve caught myself getting sidetracked more than once. And then there are the inevitable technical difficulties, like professors struggling to unmute themselves or slides not loading properly.
In-Person Learning: A Different Dynamic Being in a physical classroom brings an energy that’s hard to replicate online. It’s exciting to engage in face-to-face discussions and try out new learning experiences. Guest speakers can still make an impact, and there’s something about being in a room full of people that fosters spontaneous discussion and connection.
Yet, there are challenges to consider. Not everyone has reliable access to technology or the internet, which can create accessibility issues. In a household with young children, someone might need to be home to supervise them, making online learning difficult. Distractions can still be present in-person, whether it’s side conversations or environmental noise.
The Power of Influential Media in EducationThroughout my education, influential media has played a huge role in shaping my learning. Growing up, Bill Nye the Science Guy was a staple in science classes. His experiments were exciting, engaging, and made science feel fun and accessible. Whenever an episode was shown in class, it was something to look forward to. Bill Nye is a figure that most people recognize, and his ability to make complex topics digestible is something that still sticks with me.
As an adult, my exposure to influential thinkers expanded. Kimberlé Crenshaw has been particularly impactful in my gender studies degree, helping me understand intersectionality and its implications in society.
Educational media has also introduced me to powerful documentaries like Angry Inuk and Kanehsatake: 270 Years of Resistance. These films have transported me to new perspectives, providing firsthand Indigenous narratives and shedding light on protest movements that are often overlooked.
One of the greatest strengths of media in education is its ability to make learning memorable. Documentaries, lectures, and educational shows offer ways to engage with material beyond traditional readings. They allow us to step into different worlds, learn directly from the people whose stories need to be heard, and move beyond a Western-centric perspective.