Online schooling is not a new concept. The first virtual school was launched by the University of Phoenix in 1989. Online schools continue to grow in popularity when the pandemic hits and as technology continues to improve.
Today, thousands of online schools are available for students of all ages and grade levels. Some are aimed at children with special needs or learning disabilities; others are designed for children who have been bullied at their physical school.
The idea behind online schooling is that students can get an education from home without having to deal with distractions that might interfere with their academic success.
While it might sound like an ideal solution for many families, online schools aren’t for everyone. In this article, we’ll look at some of the pros and cons of online schooling to help you decide whether it’s a great answer or a bad idea.
Pros of Online Schooling for Kids
Kids can learn how to use tech
Online schools have a lot of technology built into them. Kids are often required to use computers, tablets, or smartphones for their studies.
This means that kids get used to technology from an early age and can learn valuable skills like typing, navigating the Internet, and communicating with others online.
More time at home with family
With an online school, students spend less time traveling between classes. Many online students can avoid the long commutes and traffic jams that often come with physical school. This time can be spent at home with family, getting more time to connect and bond.
Exposure to a wider curriculum
An online school may offer a wider curriculum than a traditional brick-and-mortar school. Kids are often restricted to learning only core subjects like math, science, writing, and reading.
A quality online school program will also introduce kids to art and music in addition to these core subjects. It’s also possible to enroll in an international school that offers a curriculum designed by experts from around the world.
Won’t feel as pressured to fit in
Children who attend an online school may feel less pressure to fit in with their peers. This is especially important for shy or introverted children, as they may feel more comfortable interacting when their parents are present.
Learning materials are more accessible
Online schools make learning materials more accessible for students who don’t have easy access to books and other resources. Online schools typically use online libraries, which allow students to search for books or articles.
Instructors also create YouTube video tutorials to supplement the learning materials. These tutorials allow kids to review and practice whenever they like.
Cons of Online Schooling for Kids
Kids get distracted more easily
Kids who aren’t self-motivated may have a harder time in an online school. As there aren’t any teachers or other students around, kids may get distracted more easily and don’t learn as much.
Parents would not want to spend a lot of time telling their kids to go back in front of the computer.
Technical problems
There may be times when the computer crashes, internet connection fails, or webcam suddenly stops working. These can all be frustrating for both parents and children. A simple internet and online webcam test can help you avoid these problems.
It’s also possible that something else may go wrong with the school’s technology, such as the server crashing or a virus infecting the computers. This could disrupt the entire school system.
No sports or extracurricular activities offered
Children benefit from the development of skills they gain in sports and other extracurricular activities. They provide an opportunity for young people to learn about teamwork, fair play, and sportsmanship.
Without these opportunities, children will miss out on valuable lessons that will help them later in life.
Kids miss out on socialization
It’s important for children to interact with other kids their age to develop and use their communication skills and learn how to get along with others. Online schooling can make it harder for kids to develop these skills.
There may be a social aspect to online schools where kids are encouraged to interact with each other, but it’s not the same as having face-to-face interactions with their classmates.
They are more likely to develop anti-social tendencies.
Online school can be expensive
If you have more than one child, it can be difficult to afford the cost of online schooling. Many online schools charge more than traditional schools, and other expenses like buying multiple computers, internet access, and software need to be factored in.
Scholarships are sometimes available, but it has very specific criteria.
Yay or Nay?
The rise of online schooling for children has made headlines, but it might not be right for all kids and parents. Before making a decision, it’s best to weigh the benefits and drawbacks so that you can make an informed choice.
It really depends on the child and the situation. If you’re seriously considering online schooling for your child, educate yourself first. Look into the different types of online schools, and pay close attention to how they could fit into your family’s life.
Before you enroll your kid in an online school, think long and hard about whether this is the right decision for all of you. But one thing’s for sure: if your child is currently being held back by an education that’s not working for them, it’s definitely worth checking out alternative options like online schooling.
