Woldeab, Yawson, and Osafo, in their work with a systematic meta-analysis, conduct research work on the current situation in online education. The authors point out that changes in education associated with online formats are a driving factor in the growth of skilled professionals (Woldeab et al. 5). This is justified by how convenience factors have increased with the advent of online education. Among them, the authors point to flexible scheduling options, choice of specific narrowly focused courses, and time management (Woldeab et al. 5). In addition, the study claims such a possibility as asynchronous education. This means that online lectures can be available throughout the semester, allowing one to seek information (Woldeab et al. 6). In addition, the study also focuses on the disadvantages: for example, the inability to adjust to each student. However, the authors note that modern technology can reduce the effect of this problem. The role of instructors in leading online lessons is noted: they take a more active role in the learning process together with the students (Woldeab et al. 13). The authors also note that the dropout rate of students in the online segment is much higher, which is justified in most cases by unreasonable expectations (Woldeab et al. 14). The conclusion summarizes and points out that online education is an effective tool for professional development despite its limitations.
The study reviewed is essential to the work ahead because it points to several important aspects of online educational platforms. Since the study is a meta-analysis, all of the information provided has been tested for accuracy and validity. Consequently, its use in future essays will be scientifically valid. In addition, the work contributes to an understanding of what elements the curators are paying attention to and what students are paying attention to (Woldeab et al. 13). In addition, the study is captivating in its size, which allows us to study the information in many hypostases and learn how to interpret the results of such works. By examining all aspects of the work in detail, it is possible to notice the correlations between online learning and the opportunities realized by students and mentors. Providing the advantages, disadvantages, and limitations creates a completely transparent picture of the online platform’s place in the overall educational niche. Using this article in an upcoming study can be used for literature review sections and online education opportunities.
Paul and Jefferson devoted their study to comparing students’ experiences with online learning and traditional formats. The paper analyzes 8 years in a biology class in which more than 900 people participated in the study. In addition to dividing by learning mode, the authors also divided students into groups to determine the effect on different social categories. It was noted that there was no significant difference concerning gender or rank in the class (Paul and Jefferson 2). The authors point out that this is due to the ability of environmental science to provide material equally effectively without relying on social aspects in any type of instruction. In addition, the student needs for online education are noted: first of all, the focus is on getting an education without sacrificing work time (Paul and Jefferson 2). Second, the wide variety of programs on online platforms exceeds the traditional forms. Nevertheless, the authors discuss the advantages of traditional education: adherence to a familiar format, preservation of social activity, and independence from computer systems (Paul and Jefferson 3). Moreover, the acceptability of online education in the workplace is highlighted: the traditional format is valued more. At the same time, it should not be forgotten that the authors cherish technology as a leading factor in improving the quality of educational services in the online format (Paul and Jefferson 2). According to the study results, there are no reliable differences in academic performance. The authors state that education modality is not a preeminent factor compared to others (Paul and Jefferson 7). Consequently, the study is a good example of how and in what sequence can be implemented in comparing online and traditional learning.
Due to the breadth of Paul and Jefferson’s work, several factors justify its use in the forthcoming study. First, it is a sufficiently broad sample and multi-level analysis that the results can be accepted as reliable and essential to cite. Second, there is a discussion of both sides of the question in separate sections. The advantages and disadvantages of each type of education are a statement of fact and do not indicate a downplaying of the other type. Third, the study results also discuss the social implications of online and traditional learning. Since the article offers a social perspective on the problem of learning, it contributes to the understanding that both options need to be entirely comfortable for learning. Thus, the work contributes to understanding what factors online education versus traditional education are sidelined – gender and rank. In addition, the study reports literature and a discussion of the relevance of each format.