Misconceptions about Online/ Virtual Coaching classes

I am in the educational training field and I often come across students who have all sorts of fears when it comes to online classes. Will we understand the classes? What if I don't have internet? What if a doubt pops up? Will we be able to see the teacher? The questions are endless.

Well, online classes or virtual classes were enjoyed during the pandemic probably because it was a new concept for many students, or it was the mere pleasure of attending classes in your pajamas without showing your face or giving proxy attendance! We had good experiences with online classes but unfortunately, not everyone shared the same experience. There could be many reasons- no smartphones, bad connectivity, insufficient attention from the teacher, didn't understand the concepts of some lessons.....Let me squash some misconceptions with online training and enlighten you with the plus points.

First and foremost, try to embrace change. Be flexible, try to adapt, and merge with the changing times. Just because someone had a bad experience doesn't mean you will have one too. Online training gives you access to courses from renowned trainers from across the globe without the hassles of travel. Learning new skills will advance your career.

In-person training is better than virtual training because we can directly interact with the trainer - a virtual class is a live session with a live trainer! Students can talk to the trainer. If you haven't understood a concept, you can raise your 'hand emoji' and the trainer will unmute you, giving you audio access. Doubts can also be cleared here vi text message or audio.

Virtual classes are boring -. Interactive tools are used to make the class interesting. Engaging sessions like quizzes, polls, whiteboards for explanations, breakout rooms for individual discussions or doubt-clearing sessions allow students to be attentive and participate in the class. This gives students and trainers a personal interaction and networking opportunity.

Virtual classes are for the tech-savvy - Believe me, I too thought the same but later on, realized that there are different platforms that are user-friendly. It may be a little tough in the beginning but your trainers will support you and you will easily pick it up.

Technical issues disrupt classes - Agreed, this was a problem during the pandemic but now technology has evolved. In came 5G, internet connectivity is quite good even in villages. Suppose even with the latest 5G, you have a bad internet, many institutes have recorded classes for those who miss out on their classes.

Research shows that online learning can be just as effective if not more, than in-person learning when structured properly with active engagement.

Parents may be worried about their children bunking classes. While trainers can’t physically monitor students using a register and marking attendance, engagement tools like 'attendance tracking' help maintain accountability.

What's your opinion on virtual classes? Share your experiences here.