Perspective Chapter: Education Technology (EdTech) and the Online Course Revolution

Abstract

Digital technology is revolutionizing education. It has the power to alter the way we approach and deliver education, increase student engagement, and improve the efficiency of both teaching and learning. It can be a more flexible learning option for students with busy schedules or who live in remote areas and help to ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed. In addition, EdTech in education can also provide students with the flexibility to learn in a way that suits their individual needs. One of the most important advantages of using EdTech to enable teachers to create online courses where students can learn in their own space and at their own pace is that it can help to close the achievement gap. Finally, using EdTech to create online courses can also help to improve student engagement. COVID-19 rapidly accelerated the implementation and acceptance of online education worldwide. This online course revolution is changing the education landscape and providing new opportunities for learners and educators now and in the future.

1. Introduction

The revolution in online education has started as more and more individuals choose to learn online instead of physically attending classes [1]. The Industrial Revolution of the late 1700s and early 1800s, which saw a significant transformation in how people were working due to the automation of many manual tasks, has been reflected by online revolution in twenty-first-century society [2]. Almost all major universities and colleges have launched online course programs for interested students who have already seen the benefits. Learning will undoubtedly take place entirely online in the upcoming years in many places. The most recent and practical information and communication technologies have been developed to accommodate the needs of online learning programs.

Over the last century, the traditional concept of education has experienced significant transformation. The incorporation of technology into education has improved both teaching and learning experiences. Because of the current COVID-19 pandemic, educational institutions have opted to incorporate more technology into the learning process to support online courses [1]. As a result, tech-savvy students are already using exciting applications and attending online classes to ensure the government’s containment measures of social distance and avoidance of gathering areas. This rapidly growing industry is known as education technology (EdTech). The primary goal of EdTech is to make learning more attractive by employing interactive instructional strategies while enhancing the level and quality of education.

2. EdTech definitions

Edtech is short for educational technology. This refers to the use of technology in academic settings, whether that be in the classroom, at home, or elsewhere. EdTech can encompass anything from simple educational tools like flashcards and apps to more complex technologies like online learning platforms and virtual reality simulations [3]. EdTech is used in formal and informal education settings and by learners of all ages [4]. EdTech can support various learning goals, including enhancing student engagement and motivation, improving assessment results, facilitating online learning, increasing access to quality education resources, and supporting blended or online/offline learning programs [4].

An online course is an educational program delivered entirely online [5]. Online courses are usually delivered via the Internet and may be taught in various formats, including text, audio, video, and interactive multimedia. Some online courses are self-paced, while others are taught in real time, with scheduled class meetings [5]. Colleges, universities, and other educational institutions, such as K-12 schools, continuing education providers, and corporate training programs, may offer online courses. Online courses have several advantages over traditional classroom-based programs. They are more affordable since they do not require the construction or renovation of physical facilities; they are available at any time of day or night and can be delivered to students anywhere in the world. Online courses also offer students various flexibility options, including the ability to complete coursework on their own time schedule or in conjunction with other activities outside of class [5].

The learning effect is the tendency for people to learn more effectively when they are given repeated opportunities to practice [6]. This is often seen in school settings, where students who are given multiple opportunities to complete a task tend to perform better than those who have only one chance. The learning effect can also be seen in adults, who often learn new skills more quickly when given multiple chances to practice them [6]. The learning effect is thought to occur because people can learn new information more effectively when required to remember it. When people are given repeated opportunities to learn and use a new skill, they are more likely to retain the information they have learned. This is because the information becomes embedded in their memory as they repeat it multiple times. The learning effect is often seen as an advantage for students and professionals who need to learn new information quickly [6]. By getting repeated opportunities to practice, people can increase their chances of success and improve their ability to understand and remember information.

The effort effect is the tendency for people to work harder when they are being paid more. This effect is often used to justify paying people more money for doing a job that is seen as difficult or unpleasant. The theory is that if people are paid more, they will be more likely to put in the extra effort required to do the job well. In many cases, motivating people with other incentives, such as rewards or bonuses, may be more effective [7]. This bias can lead people to persist in their efforts even when they are not likely to succeed. The effort effect is often studied in decision making, as it can lead people to make suboptimal choices. For example, a person might persist in trying to solve a problem even when it is clear they will not be able to do so successfully [7]. This can lead to wasted time and energy, as well as frustration. The effort effect can also have a negative impact on people’s overall performance on a task. For example, if a person is trying to complete a difficult task, they might become discouraged if they see that they are struggling to make progress.

3. Historical review

Educational technology (Edtech) is the process of integrating technology into education to promote various learning environments and opportunities for students to learn using technology for their common tasks. EdTech is a term used to describe the process of integrating a mix of hardware and software to improve the results of students and quality of education, aiming to improve student outcomes and reduce the burden on teachers. EdTech tools range from VR headsets that help students learn certain subjects to data-based platforms that help teachers identify learning habits and create personalized lesson plans for students.

Distance learning has evolved over the last three centuries into what is currently referred to as “online learning.” Distance education started in England in the middle of the nineteenth century under the name of the “correspondence courses” that involved sending hard copy documents by mail to students and that were subjected to long time delays, so that distance education was dependent on the delivery systems and tools available at the time: first, the postal system, and later on followed by radio and television course delivery systems through licensed radio and television stations.

As information and communication technologies have advanced, online education has become more feasible technologically, economically, and operationally. Universities offering online programs can reduce infrastructure for classrooms, offices, cafeterias, dorms, and libraries, and increase the number of nontraditional students who are working full time; the advanced state of technology is making this easy to implement. Dziuban, Picciano, Graham, and Moskal [8] describe the evolution of online education in four phases: 1990s (internet-propelled distance education), 2000–2007 (increasing use of learning management systems—LMS), 2008–2012 (growth of massive open online courses—MOOCs), and beyond, with growth of online higher education enrolments outpacing traditional higher education enrolments.

Students in online course experience some concerns: isolation from peers and professors, worries about mastering new technology and software, potential for negative perception of online degrees by employers, and potential for reduced quality of instruction relative to the same courses taught as traditional face-to-face classes.

These concerns were a failure of online programs to meet expectations, which led to the concept of “blended” or “hybrid” programs that surfaced in 1999/2000 and combined face-to-face classes with online classes, hoping to synergize the advantages of both. Online and blended programs incorporate available technologies in offering asynchronous and synchronous/real-time delivery options and tools such as online discussion boards, chat rooms, and video conferencing.

Palvia et al. [9] summarized the requirements to implement online learning that include:

• Infrastructure should be equipped with high bandwidth connectivity.

• Online education quality must be improved and perceived as equal to traditional face-to-face (F2F) classroom-based education.

• Employees need access to continuing education (and it has been realized that the best way to get such education is through some form of online courses).

• It is necessary to establish meaningful standards for online learning concerning curriculum, certifications, student screening, faculty selection, and learning management systems.

• Blended or flipped education can help to maintain the balance between e-education and traditional education.

• There must be an awareness that no one model fits all. What is needed is a right mix of localization, adjustment to cultural diversity, and technology that include LMS in the context of lack of resources and infrastructure in certain parts of the world.

4. The online course revolution

In the last few years, we have seen a revolution in the way that people learn. The online course revolution is underway. More and more people are choosing to take courses online, and the reasons are numerous. There are many advantages to taking courses online, from the comfort of your own home to the ability to learn at your own pace. One of the biggest advantages is the cost. Online courses are often much cheaper than traditional courses since there are no physical materials to purchase or maintenance costs. In addition, many online courses offer discounts for those who enroll early or pay in advance. Another advantage is convenience. You can take classes online at any time of day or night and from anywhere in the world. All you need is an internet connection. This is ideal for busy people who cannot commit to a traditional class schedule. There are also a variety of courses available online. Whether you want to learn about history or take a cooking class, you can find an online system that meets your needs. Moreover, if you have trouble understanding a concept, you can usually find a video or audio explanation online. The online course revolution is related to education technology because it allows for more affordable, flexible, and convenient learning methods. It is estimated that there are now more than one million online courses available, which will increase in the future [10].

There are a few things to keep in mind when taking an online course. First and foremost, set aside enough time to devote to the class [11]. It can be easy to get behind if you are not used to working on coursework outside of a traditional classroom setting. Secondly, be sure to establish a good working relationship with your professor. You may not have face-to-face interaction, but communicating with your instructor is still important, and you can and should ask questions when needed [12]. Third, take advantage of online resources. Many online courses have forums where students can interact and help each other [13]. Finally, be sure to stay organized and keep on top of deadlines. Again, getting behind in an online course can be easy, but if you manage your time well and stay organized, you can succeed.

5. Edtech and the online era

The online era and Edtech have changed how we learn and teach. One of the most significant technological changes is in how we access information and learn new things. In the past, if you wanted to learn something, you would have to go to a library and find a book to read [14]. Alternatively, if you wanted to learn something online, you would have to visit a website and look through the information there. Technology allows us to access information and learn new things in many ways. We can learn about things by watching videos or reading articles online. Additionally, virtual reality experiences, gaming, and interacting with people of other places and cultures are all examples of how Edtech can now be used. These technologies allow students to explore new things and learn about different cultures. They can also help students who have difficulty attending school or have issues with traditional learning methods. This is because these technologies allow students to work on projects and learn at their own pace and in their own style.

6. Edtech business models

Today’s elite higher education institutions are pricey and generally for profit. It is now even more challenging to create a quick turnaround and long-lasting infrastructure that can accommodate rising educational demand [15]. However, EdTech has decreased the need for study-related relocation and assisted in saving on lodging costs. Online learning, facilitated by advanced academic tools, has also made learning materials more accessible and inexpensive.

The field of Edtech is home to a variety of business models. eLearning for students preparing for entrance exams is one such effective and appealing strategy. Platforms linking students and universities are also available online for those with the necessary tools [16]. The Kahn Academy is another online model for K-12 through university-level eLearning on many subjects. Degree programs provided by organizations through distance learning or online courses that offer short certificate programs are another EdTech business model approach [17]. Furthermore, gamification has lately gained popularity. Parents might find this business model confusing, but EdTech actors have ingeniously exploited gaming as a teaching tool.

Similarly, there are several additional business models, including knowledge-sharing websites, online discussion boards where insights are shared, and tools for creating instructive movies. Authorities should naturally be concerned about the effects of EdTech, given its fast expansion and widespread acceptance [16]. EdTech companies must follow rules and regulations that are relevant to the education sector.

7. Theory related to EdTech and online courses

One theory related to EdTech and online courses is that of the technology-mediated learning theory [18]. Technology-mediated learning theory posits that technology can mediate and facilitate learning. This theory has been used to explain how online courses can provide an effective and efficient learning experience for students. It suggests that online courses provide a more customized and individualized learning experience than traditional classroom-based instructions. Additionally, online courses allow more collaboration and interaction between students and instructors. Lastly, online courses might provide a more flexible learning environment, which can benefit students with different learning styles or who have trouble attending traditional classes [18]. Technology-mediated learning theory provides a valuable perspective on how online courses can help students learn effectively and efficiently. While technology-mediated learning theory is relevant to both EdTech and online courses, there are certain limitations to the theory that should be considered when designing or using online courses. Technology-mediated learning theory considers individual differences in learners [18]. This means that different students will likely respond differently to the same type of online course. Therefore, the theory suggests that educators should consider learners’ differences since the online instruction is customized and individualized.

Similarly, A theory called online collaborative learning (OCL) was put out by Linda Harasim and emphasizes the advent of digital technology to offer learning settings that promote teamwork and information development [14]. According to Harasim, OCL is a new theory of learning that emphasizes collaborative learning, knowledge creation, and internet use to transform institutional, nonformal, and informal education for the knowledge age [14]. Internet-based and widespread interconnected education has advantages for learning and teaching [14]. Harasim adopts some of Alberto Barabasi’s viewpoints on the influence of networks [16]. Idea organizing, idea generating, and intellectual convergence are the three stages of knowledge formation in OCL that occur throughout group discourse.

8. The link between EdTech and online courses

In the twenty-first century, EdTech has been revolutionized by the rise of online courses. By taking advantage of the internet and modern technology, online courses offer a flexible and convenient way to learn. They are also often more affordable than traditional courses. The online course revolution has made learning more accessible than ever before. With online courses, people can learn at their own pace and in their own time. They can also choose from a wide range of courses, which means that there is something for everyone. The online course revolution is transforming education. It is related to EdTech in many ways. For one, online courses are typically more affordable than traditional courses [19]. They are also more convenient, as they can be taken anytime and from anywhere. Additionally, online courses often provide more flexibility in terms of pacing and content than traditional courses. Finally, online courses are often more engaging and interactive than traditional ones [20], as they use multimedia resources and allow for more collaboration between students and instructors. Online courses also offer educators opportunities to improve their skills. Educators can gain new knowledge and understanding of pedagogy, technology, and course design by taking online courses themselves [14].

9. The importance of online courses

Online courses are very important because they can help individuals learn new things and improve their skills. Online courses allow students to learn at their own pace and on their own time schedule [21]. This means that students can take courses when it is convenient for them and learn at their speed. Another reason why online courses are so important is that they can help save money. Online courses do not require paying for transportation or accommodation. Students can also save money on textbooks and other materials [21]. Finally, online courses are often more flexible than traditional courses. They can provide a better school-life balance that enables students to attend class whenever it is most convenient. This means they can fit around work or family life [21]. If a student has children, for example, they may be able to take the course during the evenings when children are asleep.

Moreover, a variety of programs are available for online learning. Students have a smaller choice of courses in traditional schooling than in online learning [15]. Through online programs, students can acquire additional knowledge beyond their course material and critical career skills. According to Andreyanova et al. [22], online platforms offer countless options and online learning includes many different possibilities.

Students can improve on the knowledge acquired in the classroom by watching videos online on any topic at any time. They may study different aspects from building a website to learning a new language through online programs. Moreover, they have the opportunity to pause and replay online videos over and over to better understand the most challenging concepts.

Although students can learn online by simply watching videos, authors believe that some subjects are better learned in person and others are better learned online. Welding, organic chemistry, and diplomacy can all be studied online; however, they are all better learned in person. Although they might give a solid foundation, online programs should not be the main source of information on these topics. Authors perspective is that I would not want to undergo surgery by an expert who has only taken the course online because that sort of skill is only developed through actual practice. Additionally, I would not want someone who had only completed an online degree to build my house. I want someone with hands-on experiential learning combined with fundamental architectural knowledge. Finally, scientists who have actually worked in laboratories have gained a wealth of real-world information and are better positioned to fill new, breakthrough demands.

10. Why online courses are more effective

The internet has revolutionized the way we learn. It has allowed us to access more information than ever before and the ability to learn at our own pace. Online courses have become more prevalent in recent years, offering a flexible and convenient learning method. There are several reasons why online courses are becoming more effective [21]. One reason is that online courses can be customized to meet the learner’s expectations. In the past, courses were often designed to cater to all in a manner that may not have been suitable for everyone. With online courses, students can choose which topics they want to explore and can start and stop the course at any time. This allows them to focus on their interests and avoid boredom or frustration. Another advantage of online courses is that they are accessible from anywhere in the world [21]. This makes them ideal for those unable to attend class in person.

With the ability to study at their own pace in a relaxed setting, eLearning has changed education in learning institutions and for the working class [23]. The eLearning will undoubtedly significantly impact education in the foreseeable future on matters related to the delivery of educational content. As per IBM (International Business Machines), students who enroll in online learning programs benefit more than those who attend traditional face-to-face classroom sessions [16]. Students may study at a speed that they think is more comfortable in online classes since they have complete control over their education. Compared to traditional classroom settings, students in online courses learn more quickly and retain more knowledge because they have the opportunity to repeat the same concept over and over [23]. They can advance more quickly through the course’s known sections but must proceed gradually through the sections that necessitate additional attention over time. Compared to studying in a regular classroom setting, people spend 40–60% less time on the online type of learning [16]. Additionally, most eLearning approaches let students split their course time in any way they see appropriate.

Another area of improved effectiveness lies in online courses employing a range of evaluation instruments. Numerous evaluation options are available with online learning, and teachers may customize these evaluations for specific students or student groups [22]. Educators are not limited to solely utilizing traditional evaluations, such as examinations and quizzes, to ascertain their learners’ progress and the extent of their progress [15]. To show their comprehension, students can produce online presentations for the classroom, write essays and peer review processes, participate in group projects synchronously and asynchronously, or generate essays and peer evaluations [24]. It keeps the game exciting and appealing for both learners and their teachers by offering a range of evaluations.

11. How online courses reflect the learning effect and effort effect

Online courses can reflect both the learning and effort effects.

The learning effect is a student’s capacity to improve his or her score as the number of context repetitions rises [15]. Alternatively, the learning effect is described as a considerable improvement in cognitive academic achievement that occurs as repeated tests increase until the score reaches stability and stops fluctuating. Online courses are critical in ensuring that the learning effect is realized in many ways. According to Losses et al. [17], one method for students taking online classes is to return to the same subject repeatedly to comprehend it better. Since a teacher must always be present in the traditional classroom to deliver instructions to the students, the learning effect will not be as successful as in the online course program.

Online courses can provide a more flexible learning environment, allowing students to learn at their own pace, and review material as needed [7]. Additionally, online courses can offer a variety of media and resources that can help to engage students and facilitate learning. Finally, online courses can provide feedback and assessment measures to help students gauge their progress and adjust their learning strategies accordingly [7]. All these factors can contribute to a more effective learning experience.

The study of how people taking online courses could approach success or failure with various attitudes is the main topic of Marina Krakovsky’s paper, “The Effort Effect” [17]. Krakovsky informs the audience that people view failure and achievement from either an unfavorable or a favorable angle. She explains that while the skill itself is not hereditary, it can be cultivated by adopting a growth mindset [17]. Carol Dweck, a psychology professor, is mentioned by Krakovsky as she contrasts a growth mentality with a closed mindset [17]. For instance, a student taking an online course with a growth mentality would see failure as an opportunity to learn, but someone with a closed mindset would see it as the limit of their capability. Krakovsky created this theory for all demographics, including those pursuing online courses to stimulate a new feeling of progress in their brains and help them become informed in their perspectives of failure and success.

12. Benefits of online learning for students in higher education

The advantages of online learning for students in higher education are of great concern. Perhaps the most crucial advantage is that it offers greater flexibility in terms of time and location. Students can study at their own pace and in their own time and access course materials from anywhere in the world. They can rewind and replay lectures as often as they need to understand the material. They can also take the time to complete assignments and readings at their convenience [21].

Another benefit is a better balance between school and life. Online learning can improve the school-life balance for many university students while also providing them with more freedom and time to do other things, which they want to do [25]. One should be aware that online courses can be either asynchronous or synchronous. Whether a live lecture or a discussion session, synchronous classes require showing up on time. However, many online courses are asynchronous so that a student may finish them at their own speed and on their own schedule [25]. Students can study around their other commitments, such as work or family. Thus, online learning can be tailored to the individual needs of each student. These conveniences can ease stress levels and assist in managing regular routines [15].

A very important consideration for many students is that online courses are often more affordable than traditional courses. This is because there is no need to pay for travel or lodging expenses.

Finally, online courses can help build a strong foundation in any field of study [21]. They can develop the skills necessary to succeed in a traditional classroom.

Overall, online courses offer many benefits for students. When choosing an online course, students should be sure to consider all the options available in order to find the perfect course for their academic and individual needs to achieve success in their academic careers.

13. How online course benefits reflect on students

Online education places more emphasis on the student. Unlike traditional classrooms, online learning environments offer learners more freedom and personalized learning opportunities [24]. Students who study online can do it whenever and wherever they are most at ease. They are free to study at their speed and in the time frames that work best for them and take breaks, when necessary, without disturbing other students. Students may choose how much information to take in at a time. Moreover, online education provides time for assimilation and reflection. Reviewing what they have learned, how it relates to their prior experience, and the current situation can be done at the learner’s leisure [26]. Tailoring teaching to meet individual needs is possible with well-designed online courses. Courses might involve events that support and challenge all learners [24]. Deeper reflection and cooperation are fostered through online learning. Effective learning requires teamwork and reflection [26]. Additionally, online courses offer resources and areas for students to work with their professors and other students. According to Moore et al. [24], online learning allows students to think aloud without fear of criticism or interruption. People who feel anxious about speaking up or asking questions sometimes find comfort in not being physically present in the classroom. They frequently feel bolder when they know no one in the class can see them [14]. Online conversations generally move at a moderate speed, inspiring more thoughtful replies. This is because students have adequate time to contemplate their answer to a question or how they will engage in a conversation. Additionally, the knowledge that an online chat is recorded usually encourages participants to respond with more restraint [24]. They will think more carefully about their replies and not say something that could be offensive or something that is against the law in their country.

14. Student perspectives on online courses

Most students think that online courses are a great way to learn. They are very convenient and can be taken at any time [27]. Since students are in an online course, there are no distractions [2]. While some students may like the busy halls and background sounds that characterize school life, others may not be as enthusiastic about these distractions [28]. Students in traditional schooling must attend a class every day at the beginning of the sessions to grasp the concepts, but for the online courses, students can pause the instructional video or save it for future reference. Students also like the fact that they can go back and review the material as many times as they need to.

However, students also believe that online courses have downsides. One downside of online courses is that they can be very isolating. Lack of social engagement is one of the downsides of online learning. According to Sharma [23], a significant portion of the college experience involves social contact and relationships, which is essential to every student because students are social beings. This is the occasion and setting to meet new people and develop lifetime friendships. In-person group tasks are eliminated from online programs [26]. These assignments are frequently crucial in helping students improve their capacity to collaborate with others [1]. According to Oksana et al. [1], online classes make it challenging to participate in class debates and learn new viewpoints. They may not be as interactive as traditional courses. This can make it difficult to ask questions or get feedback. Additionally, they may not offer the same level of support available in a physical classroom. Another downside is that online courses can be challenging to follow if the student does not understand the material well. This can make it difficult to retain information and improve skills [27]. Finally, online courses may not be available to everyone. If you cannot access an online course, you may have to find another way to learn the material.

15. How the pandemic has affected opinions of online courses

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed people’s opinions toward online courses. The primary delivery mechanism for teaching during the COVID-19 epidemic has changed to online learning. COVID-19 affects people’s opinions toward online courses [28]. People prefer to learn online to avoid and reduce the spread of COVID-19. Most individuals believe that as long as the globe is fighting the COVID-19 virus, online education should be prioritized. People are now more open to learning online since it is more convenient and flexible. Additionally, the pandemic has made people more aware of the importance of education and how it can help them in their careers. Therefore, the pandemic has positively influenced attitudes toward the value of education. However, it is still too early to tell how much the pandemic will change education in the long term [29]. Many people are still resistant to taking courses online, but overall, the trend seems to be heading in a positive direction.

16. Professors’ perspectives on online courses

Professors believe that online courses are a valuable addition to the college experience, providing students with greater flexibility and access to courses. However, professors also note that online courses present some challenges, from a need for improved student engagement and motivation, to the potential for cheating and plagiarism. They also believe that online courses require more time and effort from instructors to create a quality learning experience for students [27]. Overall, professors believe that online courses offer significant potential benefits for students and educators but require continued refinement and improvement to meet the needs of all involved.

17. How society perceives online courses

Society has different views of online courses. A few people see online courses as not being as good as traditional courses because they are not in person. Others might view them as more convenient because they can be done at one’s own pace and time. Some employers might judge them as inferior to traditional classes but others might consider them as a more convenient option for employees [29]. There is no right or wrong response. It just depends on the individual’s preferences. Overall, society sees online courses as an acceptable way to learn new information. However, some people may not be comfortable taking a class online.

18. The future of Edtech

According to GlobalData’s “Tech in 2030” research, global EdTech revenues will increase to $538.5 billion in 2030 from $226.4 billion in 2022 [28]. Through the normalization of online learning, the disease outbreak fundamentally altered education. Schooling will see a significant technological revolution between now and 2030 [28]. According to Huang [4], New and EdTech-based learning systems will replace outdated textbook- and offline course-based-materials-based educational systems.

19. Status of the online course revolution

Online courses were less common before the revolution in educational technology, but they have grown immensely in popularity since the outbreak of the COVID-19 epidemic. In 2018, pre-Covid, Palvia et al. [9] wrote that the online course revolution was still in its infancy, and new advancements and strategies were constantly being created. Online courses were becoming more widely accepted and were being provided by more universities and academies due to the changes in educational technology [9]. Online courses were first made widely accessible to everyone during this period. More people could now access online courses after the breakthrough in educational technology. The number of online courses is now far greater than before the COVID-19 epidemic. Online courses are more popular than ever because many work from home, and the variety and quality of these course offerings have increased significantly over time. As more people become aware of the advantages of online learning, this trend is likely to continue.

20. The status of the online course revolution after the education technology revolution

The revolution in online education has been a mixed bag. On the one hand, it has improved access to education for those who might not have been able to pursue it. On the other side, it has also made it simpler for individuals to obtain certifications and degrees without learning much because in many cases, there is less “classroom supervision” than in a face-to-face learning setting. In other words, there are advantages and disadvantages to the revolution in online education.

On the positive side, people who would not have otherwise had the chance to seek higher education now have wider access, thanks to the revolution in online courses [4]. People who live in remote areas or have busy schedules should be especially aware of this. They can learn at their own pace and on their schedule with online classes.

On the negative side, the revolution in online education has made it simpler for individuals to obtain degrees and credentials without actually learning anything [4]. In other words, the revolution in online education has made it easy for individuals to manipulate the system. This is a major issue since it raises the possibility that employers and other parties would not trust applicant’s credentials. Overall, there are advantages and disadvantages to the revolution in online education. To make full use of the opportunities it offers, it is critical to be aware of both the positive and negative aspects.

21. The online course revolution before the COVID-19 pandemic

Before the COVID-19 epidemic, the online course revolution was well underway. Numerous online colleges and universities provided a variety of courses. Many firms embraced the courses and were regarded as a good alternative to traditional institutions [30]. Online courses were considered a more affordable and practical choice for many students. However, there were still some issues with online courses, such as the lack of personal interaction and the potential for cheating.

22. The online course revolution after the COVID-19 pandemic

Due to universities and colleges moving their courses online to continue teaching during the COVID-19 epidemic, there are now many more online courses available [31]. Due to this, there is now a greater variety of online courses, and more well-known colleges and universities are also offering more online courses. The number of students enrolling in online courses has increased along with the number of online courses available. This is probably because online courses provide more flexibility and convenience and because many students cannot attend traditional classes because of the pandemic.

Obviously, the COVID-19 epidemic served as a catalyst for this transition, and the online course revolution is here to stay. Online courses are generally more economical than traditional courses and provide a flexible and handy way to learn [32]. The number of students enrolling in online courses has increased due to the expansion of their availability, and this trend is anticipated to continue in the years to come.

It is evident that the online course revolution is here to stay. Online courses’ advantages, such as flexibility and convenience, have made them more popular than ever. The number of students enrolling in online courses has increased as a result of the expansion of their variety and availability, and it is anticipated that this trend will continue in the years to come.

23. Conclusion

The online course revolution is transforming education. It provides new opportunities for learners and educators alike. The need for online courses has been rising steadily, especially as the world struggles to contain the COVID-19 pandemic and more practical learning technologies are developed. With online courses, learners can access courses from anywhere in the world and at any time. This flexibility is unprecedented and provides new opportunities for learners to access education. For educators, online courses provide new opportunities to reach more learners and tailor instruction to individual learners. In addition, online courses are often more affordable than traditional courses, making them accessible to a wider range of learners. The online course revolution is changing the education landscape and providing new opportunities for learners and educators.