Learn English online vs. offline
What year was it that you got your first computer? Remember how exciting it was when you browsed the Internet for the very first time? Twenty years ago, not every household have access to the Internet or even own a computer to begin with. But look at our world now. Practically every business and education functions rely on the Internet. But technology advancement doesn't just stop here. Smartphone allows people to browse the web outside of their houses. Even the education system is becoming virtual. What used to be a classroom with teacher, students, blackboard, and textbooks are now transformed into student sitting in front of the computer and clicking on videos to watch teacher giving lectures. Learn English online is gaining popularity and for good reasons too. Today, almost every household have access to the Internet. Thai people enjoy doing things online because it’s very convenient. Imagine attending the lecture in your pajamas or sending your homework with just a click of the mouse. With online learning, there is no need to get out of the house. Also, there is no need to suffer through hours of Bangkok’s traffic jam. Student can re-watch the lecture videos if they don’t understand something. This would not have been possible in a live classroom. Online lessons usually have the Vocabulary section where students will be given a list of words for each unit with definitions and audio of the pronunciation. Students could be in Chiang Mai and still be able to learn and turn in their homework with the rest of the class. Conducting an online class also benefits the teachers. They can check the students’ homework from their home without having to come down to the office. By sending homework online, teachers can also monitor plagiarism.
We've mentioned the advantages of studying English online. But there are many disadvantages to consider as well. Thailand’s online system is making huge progress over the past few years. But there are still many areas that still need improving. Disadvantage of online learning is the lack of real human interaction. Learning English especially requires an in-class session because otherwise how would the students know that they are pronouncing the words correctly. After all, they are just listening to the way the teacher pronounced the words on the video. There would be nobody to correct the students' mistakes. The purpose of studying English is not merely to turn in your homework and pass the test. It is about interaction, the process of learning, and the motivation to want to learn. Sitting in front of the computer doesn't really ignite any form of motivation. To master the English language the student needs to love the subject. In a real class, students can share ideas with classmates, consult with teachers, and be in an environment that fosters learning. Interacting with teachers and fellow classmates by e-mails and message board doesn't give the same feel. An English class that incorporates both an online and offline structure proves to be more effective in comparison to a class that is completely online. Online class is still important because it helps learning English be more convenient.