Top Reasons Students Struggle with Online Learning

Remember when you had to pack your bags as per the timetable before you went to bed? Well, we all do. But tell it to the young generation now, and they will laugh it off. Don’t be surprised if they say, ‘Why do you have to pack your bag?’ There’s no point in blaming them. Technology reigns supreme in the present times, and one can learn from the comfort of one’s bed.

Online learning has taken the world by storm in the past few years. While the concept is not new, its rapid implementation has almost made the traditional education system a thing of the past. Despite initially having a few objections, teachers and students have preferred the online mode.

That speaks a lot about the acceptance of the online learning environment. However, there are instances where students are seen struggling with online classes. Why is that so? Let’s dive into this interesting aspect and learn about the top reasons students struggle with online learning.

7 Reasons for Students Struggling with Online Learning Environment

With most schools, colleges, and universities adapting to an online form of learning, there’s no doubt that all accept this form. However, when you look at the bigger picture, you will see how many students are not able to cope with the rapid changes. Where’s the problem? Let’s examine:

1. Keeping Up with the Clock

If you could relate to the example of packing your bags right at the start, you would understand how time management in online education is a challenge for students in online classes. Unlike the traditional classroom system, the online environment has no structured schedule. This makes prioritizing tasks difficult, thus leading to missed deadlines and stress. If you’re juggling a full-time job, keeping up with your online classes can feel nearly impossible, which brings up an important question: Should you pay someone to take your online class?

2. Logged in but Left Out

Feeling isolated is common among online students. Online education does not allow students to connect with their peers during sessions. While they can connect over a Zoom call or a Google Meet, it is not the same as physical interaction. This is a major challenge because students feel disconnected, leading to a lack of engagement among learners. 

3. Technical Difficulties – An Uphill Battle

Unstable internet, new and unfamiliar software, and outdated hardware are some challenges students face and eventually struggle with in online classes. Checking your WiFi now and then hampers the learning experience. This comes with technology, and you must find a way to ensure you have no problem pursuing the online course. 

4. Lack of Motivation

A lack of face-to-face interaction can lead to both isolation and a lack of motivation. Students do not have a sense of urgency and do not feel accountable to online schools. Further, studying in a home environment is one of the common problems in online learning that leads to distractions. This, in turn, demotivates students, and they fail to keep up with their progress. 

5. Online Distractions

There’s no end to distractions online. You have Netflix, online multiplayer games, and so much more to do. This is one of the major reasons students are struggling with online classes. They tend to get distracted during online classes. Since no one can supervise or look after them, they often open different tabs, switch off their camera, and do what they like. 

6. Disconnected by Design

Participation in online learning is a major challenge. Online classrooms do not give the scope to communicate with their peers or teachers when they need help. While you can hire an online class taker, it cannot be denied that the lack of communication continues to be one of the major challenges in online study. Also, students cannot expect their doubts to be cleared immediately during the live sessions. 

7. Learning to Fly Midair

Virtual learning is completely new to students. They find it difficult to adapt to the learning platform or the various software used to share notes, live videos, etc. This is one of the major distance learning difficulties for both students and teachers. Further, students with special needs are the ones who face a lot of problems adapting to the technical shift. 

A recent study found that 60% of teachers have said that online classes have been difficult for students, and they find it more difficult to understand lessons online compared to face-to-face classes. While that’s alarming, finding solutions to online learning struggles is equally important since digital learning is here to stay. 

In the following section, we will discuss a few solutions to ensure students don’t give up and make the most of online courses.

Solutions to Help Students Cope with the Virtual Learning Sessions

1. Build a Routine, Become Unstoppable

Time management is one of the serious challenges of online learning. So, how do you beat the clock and stay on track? The best way is to create a schedule and follow it religiously. 

You need to calm down, sit with a pen and paper, and work on a timetable so that you can manage your studies, a bit of Netflix, and assignments without problems. 

2. Bridge the Virtual Gap

Students who attend online classes often feel isolated. We understand you are not at fault here since this is how the system works. However, there’s a way to overcome these digital learning obstacles. 

Find the necessary team that supports students. The advisors associated with them can provide the necessary support throughout your course. Also, you can check for discussion forums or chats to connect with your peers. 

3. Get in Touch with the IT Squad

Technical challenges in eLearning are common. Here again, you are not at fault. Yet, you have to find a way to solve the problem. So, before accessing the online platforms, find a reliable internet connection. 

In addition, stay in touch with the technical support team. Try fixing the technical issues before the class starts to ensure a smooth learning process. You will not have to leave a class midway when you have access to the necessary technology. Also, if you know about the benefits of paying for online class, you can sign up with one of them to stay on track. 

4. Get Your Head Back in the Game

Lack of physical interactions can demotivate students. But you should not use this as an excuse when the world shifts online. Setting long-term and short-term goals to stay on track and motivated is wise. 

You can also use the discussion forums to your advantage. Reach out to your peers, talk to them, and understand if they face the same problems. This will help you keep up with the pace and feel motivated to work on the issues. 

5. Remove Online Distractions, Focus on Learning Aspects

Focusing on studies can help you overcome many problems. Instead of switching off your camera to watch your favorite show, listen to your teacher’s words. Find a study space for learning from home. 

These would help you learn. You can also try navigating the software being used to understand how it is used. Staying updated is the only way to remove digital learning obstacles. 

The solutions will help you learn how to cope with online class challenges. You can always hire someone to take your online test, but you cannot ask anyone to learn. You must work on the various points to ace online courses.

Final Thoughts,