Remote Learning
Remote learning is an educational process in which the teacher and student are not physically in a traditional classroom environment. Remote learning is typically conducted online and became widespread during the COVID-19 pandemic.
What is Remote Learning
Remote Learning is a non-traditional learning environment that includes a variety of learning methods, such as video conferencing, discussion chats, collaborative boards, and online evaluations and assessments.
Classroom size in remote learning can range from one-on-one or a small group setting, to a large lecture with hundreds or thousands of students. Remote learning allows for both real-time instruction and discussions and independently-paced schooling.
Definition of Remote Learning
Remote Learning Examples
K-12
In both public and private K-12 schools, instructors use video conferencing software to communicate and engage with their students. Teachers may also use education software to create and track assignments, collect papers and provide feedback, or assign pre-read materials.
College
College students can benefit from remote learning, especially if they have other commitments or responsibilities that might have conflicted with their ability to complete a college degree. With remote learning, students can create a schedule that might not have been possible in typical in-person university experience.
Workplace
Employees who work full-time jobs can engage in remote learning, as there is usually flexibility to set one’s own pace. Additionally, the employees do not have to spend the money, time, and energy on a commute that may have been a conflict for traditional, face-to-face learning, and can instead focus on their job responsibilities or material related to the course.
Why Remote Learning is Important
Provides flexibility for students
Students can rewatch lectures and discussions to fully understand and review the material, regardless of when the session actually took place.
Benefits visual learners
Students who are visual learners can benefit from remote learning, since it involves communications and messaging over computer-based text.
Allows for self-paced learning
Through remote learning, students can optimize their experience by setting their own schedule, both in terms of time of day and hours spent on coursework.
Remote Learning Statistics
18% of parents found remote learning beneficial
According to School Psychology, 18% of parents identified flexibility as the largest positive outcome related to remote learning.
25-60% increased information retainment
According to Think Impact, eLearning can help students retain 25% to 60% more course materials.
24% higher profit margins across companies
According to American Society for Training and Development’s survey across 2,500 companies, eLearning led to a 218% increase in revenue per employee and 24% increase in profit margins.
Remote Learning Resources
Key terms to better understand remote learning
EdReport’s list of key terms can help educators and students learn the language within the digital space that are crucial to remote learning.
Asynchronous vs. synchronous remote learning
This article by Dyknow distinguishes between asynchronous and synchronous learning, and can help you decide which of the two is a better fit for your classroom experience.
Brain-based learning principles within virtual learning
Training Industry’s article discusses the psychology behind the chronological steps and proven methods that promote maximum retention in the virtual classroom.
How To Engage in Remote Learning
Set clear expectations
Students and instructors should all align on the time required to complete the course, how frequently and on which platforms communications will take place, and other ground rules that aren’t typically established in a traditional classroom.
Design the lesson plan
The optimal curriculum will depend on the topic at hand and the nature of the students, but oftentimes instructors will include a variety of teaching methods within their lesson plan, such as interactive activities and small group discussions.
Use a learning software
Instructors may adopt certain learning softwares that can help ensure that their students are staying on track and making progress, while also providing students with written, tangible feedback.