Online Learning IS Helpful and CAN Improve Students’ English Ability

“Online learning is not real learning. It’s just an easy way out.” I have heard this statement throughout my teaching career. To many people, online learning or teaching isn’t considered “real,” but instead, “an easy way out.” Many people even question whether learning English online is effective or just a way to make quick money. I wondered why some people would feel this way. Is it because the World Wide Web is easily accessible? Is it because we can find any, if not all the answers to our questions on Google? Or, is it an easy way of learning? These are good questions with many answers. I will attempt to answer them…from my opinion and personal experience with both online learning and teaching.

It is true that the World Wide Web also known as the Internet is easy access to information. We don’t necessarily have to go to a classroom to learn something new. Thanks to search engines like Google, we can find information at our fingertips. I consider Google my companion, because I am able to find what I’m looking for at any time. However, is it just about searching for information? Does Google help us learn or teach? Online learning is just learning something online. Seems simple enough, but there is still much debate whether or not online learning is actual learning. Many even question its authenticity. I beg to differ.

From my experience, online learning is another form of learning. It is taking the traditional form of lessons and bringing it to the computer screen at the student’s convenience. You still have to read, comprehend, and study the material presented. This was the case when I completed two undergraduate programs online (I have three degrees total). Online teaching is just as challenging as teaching in a classroom. In general, a teacher still has to lesson plan, gather materials for the lesson, and know how to present it to his/her students. In the English as a Second Language (ESL) classroom, teaching or learning English is just as challenging. Students are still shy about learning a new language. They don’t feel comfortable making mistakes, or speaking to a native English speaker. Teachers have to become comfortable talking through a webcam or using software applications such as Skype or Google Hangouts. The task is the same, trying to teach a language to a learner who doesn’t speak the same language as you.

Learning English online is helpful to students, because it gives the student more freedom in how he wants to learn and can focus on specific parts of the language. For example, I had a student who wanted to prepare for the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam. He was an intermediate level student from Iran. His spoken language was good, but he needed more practice on how to respond to test questions. We reviewed the speaking parts of the IELTS practice test, and discussed new vocabulary. We did this through Skype, where I shared my screen (showing the practice test questions and audios) with him as we practiced. This student felt happy he was able to practice English at a convenient time (based on time difference between us), and focus on his English learning needs. I felt satisfied that I could help him with the use of Skype, the internet, and a webcam. I was able to implement my lesson without any disruption. Through practice and dedication, students can learn English online. Through preparation and interest, teacher can help their students learn online. It is a partnership between the teacher and student, how each person approaches the lesson, and showing interest in the process. In my opinion, this helps the online learning process become less stressful and more productive. Learning online is NOT an easy way out, but a CONVENIENT way of learning, especially when it comes to learning English. The possibilities are endless.