Online learning has shown significant growth over the last decade. Since the COVID-19 outbreak, online schools have become more centric in people’s lives. As per research and market forecasts, the online education market is set to grow by $350 Billion by 2025.
According to iCademy Middle East, a KHDA registered online school in the UAE, there has been an exponential growth in student enrollments given the current situation. Cody Claver, General Manager, iCademy said, “We are anticipating that our school may double in size.” iCademy Middle East is accredited by NEASC (New England Association of Schools and Colleges), and graduates are accepted to top flight universities throughout the world.
Online schooling has several advantages – right from a fully articulated curriculum that matches online lessons with offline supporting materials, to every student being given an individualized learning plan that outlines each day lessons. In addition, teachers are trained to teach students online and are provided the tools to successfully engage students in their learning. Through online learning platforms, teachers are able to monitor student progress, strengths and areas of need, as well as be more diagnostic in understanding the needs of students and then prescribe the proper teaching methods to help students achieve greater success in their learning.
As with all business and learning models today, technology is particularly important to the growth of online education. The tools that are developed and used by teachers and students need to impact the level of learning. Access and connectivity are not as much an issue anymore. The issue is, does the technology actually advance student thinking, understanding and ultimately engagement in learning. However, most online schools ensure that this is well addressed.
“Online education really requires students to take ownership at an earlier age for their learning. The truth is you cannot hide in online education, either you are doing the work, or you are not. Systems will mine data and information on student progress and understanding. If students are not engaging in online learning teachers and administrators will know that immediately. Future learners will know and understand the need for taking initiative and that will ultimately be impactful on industry, entrepreneurs and economies of the future,” added Mr. Claver.
It’s a fact that online schooling is part of the education fabric of the future and will support traditional methods of teaching and learning. In the future, it will not be surprising to see more elements such as artificial intelligence or more advances systems democratize education for all.
