Comparative Study of Online and Offline Education

This chapter aims at exploring the trends in education in an attempt to discuss the history of online classes that begun in the middle of the twentieth century. Formerly, available only in cases of computer-based training programs, the concept of online education has seen a phenomenal growth due to existing improvements in technology especially regarding internet. Coursera and edX, which are also part of new generation Universities, have stimulated a new trend of learning that is, flexible and open to all people across the globe. The COVID 19 outbreak fast tracked this process whereby educational institutions were forced to adapt to online learning modes and this has been both a strength and a weakness. This work compares effective and entry mode strategies in online and offline learning environment, taking into account the flexibility of the process, its cost, possibility for interaction with the teacher and use of resources. Thus, it is clear that while online learning has become popular for its flexibility and convenience, there may be difficulties in creating close interaction between the students and the teacher, as well as issues of suitability for certain topics/experience. On the other hand, offline learning gives learners a chance to learn through meeting other people, getting real practice, and building up valuable relationships but it can be limited by conditions like lack of flexibility, increased costs, and physical access. At the end of the chapter, the author gives reasons why a mixed mode of learning should be adopted in future before stressing on the importance of the supply of quality education for all students at this future educational environment.