Distance learning has been carried out in many countries in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, with various types of online learning models being promoted and implemented. As the global pandemic worsens, the educational environment is being compelled to shift from traditional classroom or blended teaching modes to online learning teaching models. Following the outbreak of COVID-19, China was the first to announce the implementation of online courses in February 2020. Online learning can replace traditional offline teaching and has become a hot topic. As a result, this study investigates university students in China through questionnaires and discussions on the subject. The Push-Pull Mooring model is used in this study.
The research model was examined using structural equation modeling based on 854 valid responses from an online survey questionnaire. Push effects (perceived security risk, learning convenience, and service quality), pull effects (usefulness, ease of use, teacher's teaching attitude, task-technology fit), and mooring effects (habit) all have a significant influence on users' switching intentions from offline to online learning platforms, according to the findings. Finally, this study looks into whether push-pull mooring can be used after the pandemic to encourage and carry out online learning courses in Chinese colleges and universities.
Methods
A qualitative research study was conducted with the help of concurrent virtual focus groups and a discussion guide with seven questions that were open-ended. Using the greatest variation sampling method.
History
Since the early 1970s, there has been the option to study by correspondence. As a result, the need to 'learn' from a remote location has been obvious for decades. With the advent of the internet and the expansion of easily accessible and high-quality online services, education has moved away from its traditional 'roots' and is beginning to transition from Traditional Education to Online Learning by embracing e-culture.
BENEFITS OF DISTANCE LEARNING
- Students are entirely in control of their classes. That is, they can now learn at their own pace and in their own way. Each student learns and memorizes in his or her own unique way.
- Some people are quick learners, while others need more time to grasp a concept. The teacher explains concepts and answers questions in the classroom, but there is only so much they can do.
- There may be students who have unanswered questions. Some students may believe that the teacher's teaching pace is too fast for them. A teacher cannot possibly pay individual attention to each student.
- This problem is addressed by online education, which provides additional information and explanations through eBooks and other forms of online resources.
- Students are not required to wait for the teacher to begin or end a chapter; they can do so themselves.
- They can take charge of their own learning by using online learning. They can read the content, re-read chapters, listen to audiobooks, or seek assistance from external links.
- This enables them to enroll in courses that are suitable for their learning abilities and convenience. By allowing students to take full responsibility for their own studies, online education assists students in becoming active learners rather than passive learners.
Reduces reliance on teachers:
When students have access to online learning, their reliance on teachers for additional information or notes decreases. They can obtain additional information on their own by using online libraries. Students with easy internet access can search through thousands of online learning resources.
This would better prepare them for their exams because they would have access to not only their own courseware recommended by the institute, but also external and additional information. As a result, online learning reduces reliance on teachers for notes and explanations.
Low-Cost Learning Materials:
Distance education is substantially less expensive for students than conventional schooling in terms of cost. This is because there is a distinction between developing online course materials and printed textbooks. A paperback book is more expensive because it involves more steps in its production. From the harvesting of trees to the manufacture of paper, printing, packaging, and shipping.
All of these processes raise the price of each printed book. eBooks, on the other hand, are created using online software and are digitally published and distributed.
As a result, the total cost of traditional textbooks for the academic year remains less than the cost of eBooks. Furthermore, all of the learning materials are in one place.
Unlike traditional education, students do not need to purchase separate books for each subject. As a result, online education is both environmentally and student friendly.
Increased Interaction and Collaboration:
The traditional education model allows students to interact with one another both inside and outside of the classroom. However, these are mostly face-to-face or telephone interactions.
By providing an online platform for discussions, the online learning model allows for more interaction. eBooks can include sharing features that allow students to share content and comment on other students' posts.
Since the majority of students use social media, this type of dynamic platform promotes them to share, like, and comment on course content.
Students can use the online platform to post questions and concerns, thereby starting a discussion thread with teachers and other students.
Teachers may prefer to continue the discussion in the classroom, allowing everyone to share their thoughts and opinions while also understanding the perspectives of others. As a result, it facilitates in-depth and engaging classroom discussions.
Conclusion
Students were enthusiastic about synchronized online classes. This has significant and promising implications for the future of education and The tenets of the model of distance learning and learning outcomes should be rigorously and frequently evaluated to track its effectiveness.