Why Online Learning Is More Promising Than Traditional Learning

   Online learning is a method of transferring educational information which makes good use of  computer technology, computer network and internet instead of in a physical classroom. 
So, it allows the learners to learn through the computer without having to physically take a lesson or a lecture in class. Online learning was first introduced by the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign by using computer-assisted instruction called PLATO. Since then, online learning has developed from time to time. The system of online learning is intended to extend communication between the lecturers and the teachers and the students in the process of learning outside of their college or school. Therefore, online learning is better than face-to-face learning because of several reasons such as having better system, using more interesting method, and giving student-friendly materials.

     The system of online learning is getting better from time to time. First, time and space for the learning is more flexible. Since learning is not limited by space and time, students can learn anywhere and anytime. For example, online learning offers students the opportunity to study whenever it fits into their lives -whether 5 am or earlier, after lunch hour, or late at night. Students no longer have to worry about missing classes, because online learning allows students to fit education into their lives instead of re-organizing their lives around education. Second, chance for learning is more effective and efficient. In conventional learning, the students are not always easy to attend the class. They may have to commute long distances, battle with health problems that make it hard to go out or any other things. Online learning makes education more convenient. Third, skills and competencies are developed. Online learning requires students to be active, creative, innovative, and curious.

     Online learning uses more interesting methods than conventional learning. First, it uses internet. According to a research, there is worldwide growth in the access to the internet from 250 million worldwide internet users a decade ago to 2.08 billion internet users in 2011. In Indonesia, the use of the internet is well supported by the ministry of education and culture in cooperation with PT Telkom for the provision of free Wifi to 300.000 schools in a program called IndiSchool.  So, by just connecting to a Wifi in their schools students can search anything through the internet. Second, it uses video and audio  broadcasting. The use of video is very effective, especially for science subject. For example, it uses a method with a digital video through a server or web-based options such as video streaming from YouTube, Skype, Adobe Connect, and webcams. With video, the learners have more control over the information they receive and have additional opportunity to learn something better because they can rewind, fast-forward, and re-play the contents as many time as needed. Third, it uses CD/DVD-room to give students the opportunity ‘to travel  to remote places’ outside the classroom without leaving school.

     Online learning also gives student-friendly materials both local and international materials. When teaching,  teachers are often limited to sources in the classroom. But now, with the ability to connect to sources in a community and around the world, online learning can open a new perspective on teaching and learning. Students can access to the library and database of local materials without limits. It can help students connect with friends located in different schools or colleges or even in different countries. They can interact with different cultures, exchange information and learn from each other. Second, online learning has accessible materials. When learning activities are provided online, students no longer need to worry about accessing the materials. They can complete the assignments during their productive times. They can choose to download the materials, readings or do practice. Third, online learning has updated materials.  The growth in the use of the internet has pushed the sites of online learning to become media sharing of learning materials.

     In conclusion, online learning gives a lot of benefits for students. First of all, it is convenient since the students can learn anywhere and anytime through the internet. So, online learning should be widely used by students especially in Indonesia.

By : Nurul Dita Nadhilah