Abstract

Distance education can be identified as the method of teaching the teacher and student interacts while they are physically separated. This research study focuses on virtual learning in higher learning institutions and the impact made by using them. In this, technologies are involved in correspondence to internet, videos, audios and use of computers. Virtual learning has become the mainstream in most of higher learning institutions which is the version of distance learning today. Computers and internet are used as the delivery mechanism with most of the course content delivered online. However, virtual learning is not a new way of learning as it can be traced in the early 18^th century where it was common in the late 1800s but later grew rapidly in the 1990s due to advancement in technology. California has been at the forefront in embracing virtual education in institutions of higher learning. Virtual learning, with the use of web-based technologies continue to extend the reach of settings to training and education giving a vast array of experiences and support to students and teachers at any place and anytime. Virtual learning has become the most dynamic, exciting yet challenging for every institution that has embraced it. These trends raise concerns about the effect of online learning on the student outcomes in both short and long term. With the advancement in technology, online learning has provided new access to higher education with online participation increasing in each state’s largest ethnic group. Offering more online versions for courses with high demand should be considered as a priority. Universities in California should review the quality of current online courses and implement standardized learning management system to assess the student’s engagement and behavior and identify what should be improved.

Introduction

Virtual learning is relatively a new phenomenon though there is a generation of interest in the higher education with only a few studies of examining its effect on online courses on student outcomes. This has been done using large and representative set of online courses. With increase in the cost of attending colleges and a decline in access to higher education, officials in higher learning institutions are looking to virtual learning as a better way to increase access, promote completion and serve the needs of students. Being an alternative to face to face courses, virtual learning not only needs to be less expensive but should also yield comparable student outcomes to be cost effective.

Literature review

There has been a vast growth of online courses for institutions in higher learning especially in the 21^st century. Virtual learning has evolved over the years and is continuing to bring more advanced versions in educational practices. Technological innovations have led to people in every age bracket learn from a distance by use of a variety of different mediums.

Accessing online courses has become more popular leading to a greater number of students pursuing online learning. The exponential increase in online learning has raised its credibility with the growth in its popularity revolutionalising how learners of all ages can access and consolidate their academic knowledge.

The main benefit accorded by most lecturers and learners in California is the one-on-one learning afforded by technological supplements. E-learning has reduced financial expenses where the institutions require minimal learning facilities and some expenses incurred are reduced while the students benefit from reduced transportation and tuition fees. Virtual learning also reaches some target audience as it becomes affordable and accessible to many anytime and anywhere. Virtual learning enhances group communication where students are able to work with team members via chat rooms and emails which are easier than coordinating specific times when everyone can attend physically.

To avoid digital illiteracy, one should check the degree in technological proficiency which includes participating in classes, submitting the work, ability to successfully log in and communicating with classmates and lecturers. One should choose a school that offers technical support services where one can also freely ask tech questions. To curb technical issues in the free online services with the internet, having a reliable internet connection is crucial. Flexible time scheduling is great for every online user due to multiple responsibilities for them to be successful and be beneficiaries of the virtual education. Enhancing motivation to online learners should be done by asking them to engage frequently in the learning sessions, schedule their time and have a positive mind and give positive self-talks about virtual learning which will improve their productivity by building up their confidence.

Summary

In the Covid-19 pandemic, there has been an increase in the use of virtual learning in institutions in California. They are putting together plans to offer their education services to students even in the order of stay-at-home as they participate in mitigating the spread of the corona virus. There are a number of benefits associated with virtual learning which also comes along with some challenges. With the numerous studies in the past few years, students successful and competent with virtual learning are said to have technology skills, literacy, and independent orientation towards learning, strong time management values and are highly motivated by intrinsic sources.

References

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