Some people argue that online communication is more effective than attending physical classes, while others believe direct social contact in education must be prioritized. In my opinion, although online learning is able to provide flexibility, in-person learning can shape students’ understanding more deeply.
On the one hand, distance learning offers flexibility in terms of time and place, allowing students to learn at their own location without commuting. People who believe this tool is more effective think that students will follow the learning without pressure, so, that it makes the process more enjoyable and accessible wherever they are. As a result, students who have other urgent activities can still follow the lessons without having to attend physical classes or fear that they miss the learning material. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, students could attend online classes via Google Meet to continue their lessons without moving from their own homes. Therefore, they assume that distance learning is a great way to make sure students can keep studying in any situation.
On the other hand, I firmly believe that face to face learning allows students to develop understanding about the materials thought deeper. By attending classes, students can be directly supervised by teachers, preventing them from playing games or getting distracted by laziness, which keeps them focused on the subject matter. This can lead to better academic performance and a higher quality of knowledge. For example, at Asshiddiqiyah Islamic Boarding School, in Jakarta, prioritizes face-to-face learning because some subjects need direct contact, such as physics lab work. With direct supervision, it allows students to comprehend more as they can ask teachers immediately and gain much more accurate learning results.
In conclusion, even though online learning offers great flexibility for students in terms of locations and times, I believe that face to face education remains far more effective in terms of obtaining knowledge.