Walang Pasok: Online Classes!

Whenever rain pours or an increased number of diseases is announced, schools often revert to holding online classes. Still, we students don’t complain because many of us like online classes. Some of us even look forward to it. So, let’s explore why online classes are a good alternative to face-to-face classes and why they may have some disadvantages! 

Since online classes start at 9 a.m. and students don’t need to go to school, they can wake up at 8:30 a.m. instead of the usual 6 a.m. or 7 a.m. This gives them time to sleep more, which refreshes their brain and gives them energy for classes.

Another thing about online classes is that they are quieter than face-to-face classes. This helps students focus and pay attention to the lesson. Breakout rooms for groups are quieter than the classroom, where students can hear other groups. Since online classes end early at 1:30 p.m. instead of 2:45 p.m., this gives students more time to do their homework, rest, play, and maintain a balanced life.

Before the internet existed, students had to attend makeup classes if they could not attend school. These would extend until dismissal time, or worse, happen on a Saturday. Online classes solve this problem.

When taking online classes, students can choose any spot at home they like. They can even go to a cafe and do online classes there. On the other hand, students can only stay in their assigned seats during face-to-face classes.

However, as much as students may enjoy them, online classes can also have disadvantages. The first is that students can’t really chat with their friends, as everyone will hear it. If everybody talks at once, it will be hard to hear others. The only way they can do it is by typing in the chatbox. Still, this is not a good option since everybody in the class will know what they are talking about. So, social interactions are limited.

Another disadvantage of online classes is that P.E. or gym time would either be cancelled, moved, or limited to minimal physical activity. Furthermore, during recess or lunch, students can’t play or run with their friends.  

Another disadvantage is the need for stable internet connection. During face-to-face classes, students can always hear their teacher clearly. But during online classes, whether they can hear their teacher or not depends on the quality of their internet connection. Sometimes, their teacher’s voice is distorted if their internet connection is poor. Not only this, but when a student gets disconnected, they have to wait until they reconnect. By then, the student may have missed some parts of the lesson. A disadvantage can also be how it may be harder to focus with the distractions at home, which leads to less learning as well. 

In conclusion, online classes are neither entirely good nor bad; their effectiveness depends on how they are used and the purpose they serve in a learner’s experience.