Exploring the Drawbacks of Online Classes in Higher Education

Exploring the Drawbacks of Online Classes

Abstract

The virtual mode of education has several advantages as well as drawbacks. The current qualitative research aimed to highlight the drawbacks associated with online classes. To comprehend the subject problem the students of higher education and faculty members were reached through purposive sampling for data collection. The data was collected through online interviews from 12 university students and 12 faculty members. The data processing was supported by a thematic analysis that revealed three major findings i.e. unfavorable teaching-learning environment in online classes. Secondly, the ineffectiveness of online classes for science subjects; and research also pointed out the health problems associated with online education/classes. Teaching and learning environment can be improved if teachers and students manage an isolated room for online classes. Cheating in online exam can be discouraged by introducing open-book exam, and ineffectuality of online classes for science subjects can be enhanced by adapting blended education. Health problems caused by online classes may not be eliminated but can be reduced to some extent by adopting good practices.