Online learning

Online learning refers to the teaching or courses or subjects primarily or entirely over the Internet. This differs from traditional distance learning, which was conducted through mail, DVD, telephone, or television. Over time, this method has evolved, leading to entire courses or subjects being offered via the Internet for formal education.

Due to the complexity of the term and the different emerging terms that arise from the concept of online learning, below are a series of definitions that will help us understand this term (Singh & Thurman, 2019, p.302):

Online learning is defined as a learning experience through the internet/online computers in a synchronous classroom where students interact with instructors and other students and are not dependent on their physical location for participating in this online learning experience.
Online learning is defined as a learning experience through the internet in an asynchronous environment where students engage with instructors and fellow students at a time of their convenience and do not need to be co-present online or in a physical space.
Online education is defined as education being delivered in an online environment through the use of the Internet for teaching and learning. This includes online learning on the part of the students who are not dependent on their physical or virtual co-location. The teaching content is delivered online and the instructors develop teaching modules that enhance learning and interactivity in the synchronous or asynchronous environment.

Online learning does not imply isolation of the learner in using the course materials. Although isolation may occasionally occur, there are numerous methods for students to actively participate in their online learning experience. In the next section, we will delve deeper into distance learning, providing recommendations for a more effective approach. We will delve into the following:

• Establish clear and strong lines of communication

• Prioritize clarity in communication about what learners need to do.

• Combine synchronous and asynchronous teaching.

• Give clarity and put a voice and face to learning activities through a teacher.