Technology in education has paved way for drastic changes in the field, adding to the efficiency and ease. Educational institutions, teachers and students have all equally benefitted from it.

Online learning is one of the notable edtech that has grown popular over the years that many reputed educational institutions have joined the league in providing online courses. You can now pursue the courses of your choice from any educational institute around the world, without it actually affecting your schedule.

Most of the educational organizations provide courses in almost all subjects, with flexible study hours that there has been an increase in number of students who prefer online learning over on-campus learning.

Online learning is generally considered as pursuing education online without any interactions like in a traditional classroom set up. But, institutions have already realized the need of educational support despite the method of studying. And with the latest technology, students can study online while interacting with their classmates, taking part in subject-based discussions and attending lectures.

Also Read: (Online Learning: The benefits and challenges)

Online Learning at Present

What is exactly is happening in the world of online learning?

Let us find out.

  • Statistics

The COVID-19 pandemic is an obvious reason for the rise in number of people opting for online learning. Statistics say that over 20 million people had registered for online learning in the year 2021. (Source: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2022/01/online-learning-courses-reskill-skills-gap/)

One reason could be educational institutions making use of online learning platforms to cater to their students. Another reason is the rise in competition in the work front that has caused an increase in demand for job-specific skills. People made use of the remote working set up during the pandemic lockdown as an opportunity to develop their skills. The fact that majority of new online learners come from emerging economies is a proof of that.

According to Purdue University and The National Center for Education Statistics (Source: https://www.educations.com/study-guides/study-online/), over 6 million students are pursuing their higher education through online learning. Also, about half of the online learners are attending different courses through distance education. 85% of the students agree that online learning is similar to or better than traditional education methods.

  • Online Learning Resources

While pursuing online courses, you might require different learning resources. They include

  • Ebooks
  • Journals
  • Recorded lectures
  • Videos
  • Quizzes
  • Forums for discussion
  • Live Q and A sessions
  • Interviews

The learning resources you get depend on the institution you are taking the online course from. Your institution and instructors decide on the course format, the resources suitable for your course, and how they will be delivered to you.

The learning resources are generally delivered through the online learning platform of the institute. The platform varies with the software used; however, all platforms are accessible to students through their PC, laptops or mobile devices.

  • Assessment

Like in traditional learning, students will be tested about their knowledge on the topics they have learned so far through online learning. If you are new to online learning, it can be a bit overwhelming. However, educational institutions make sure that the assessments are unbiased, make you comfortable and help you make the most of your learning experience.

The different types of assessments you might come across in your online course include

  • Assignments

You will be assigned with tasks related to what you have learned that you have to complete and submit within the deadline.

  • Discussions

Online discussion activities might feel a bit different in the beginning, compared to face-to-face academic discussions. These activities differ based on institution.

Usually, the instructor starts the discussion with a question or topic. You should research further about the topic and provide responses in the discussion board that reflect your understanding about the topic. You might also take part in debates regarding the responses from your classmates.

  • Journals

Journal activities are exclusively part of online learning. You can update your journal entries where you can mention about what you have learned so far in the course and how you are going to use your knowledge on the subject in the future.

This gives an idea to the instructors with regard to your progress and analyse how much you have understood and the areas that need further improvement.

  • Exams

Exams are important to test your understanding of the subjects you learned online.

Many educational institutions allow students to attempt the exams in the form of an essay or final assignment. Meanwhile, some institutions use tools to monitor your activities while you attend online examinations.

Also Read: (15 Best E-Learning Tools for Online Education)

  • Qualifications

Most institutes providing online courses are fully accredited. You can earn different qualifications for different learning programs, ranging from bachelors and masters degrees to certifications through online learning.

The type of qualification you receive depends on the following factors:

  • Where the online institutions in located
  • Whether the institution is private or public
  • The title of the organization
  • Type of programs offered by the organizations

Before enrolling, you should make sure to fully learn about the type of educational institution you will be studying at and how the qualifications provided by the institution are recognized your native country.

Sometimes, you can see that many online learning institutes also partner with campus-based universities to offer different learning programs. In such cases, learning happens through online learning platforms while the validated degree courses are provided by the university.

  • Learning Support

Learning support is essential when it comes to education, be it online or offline. The support students receive has a direct impact on the quality of their learning experience. Over the years, educational institutions have recognized the importance of learning support and are ensuring that all students’ needs with regard to their education are met.

In online learning, this support is provided using technology, like video calls, voice calls, emails, etc.

  • Student Support Teams

Student support teams allow students to share the issues they face during online learning and provide them advices. You can also receive support from your peers.

Institutions also provide online discussion groups, in Whatsapp and social media, where you can create online communities to provide support and come together to help other fellow students to overcome their hurdles.

  • In-house and freelance educators

Academic support is as important as emotional support in creating a positive learning environment for students. Many online education providers have both in-house and freelance instructors, who create and deliver courses. They are also qualified subject experts who can guide the students academically and provide them feedback for their performance.

Some online learning platforms allot personal tutors to students. These tutors will be available for individual sessions that you can use to clear your doubts and further improve your knowledge.

  • Current Trends

With innovative technology being introduced, new edtech trends emerge every year. The following trends are what 2022 has in store for online learners.

  • Metaverse

Virtual Reality is already a trend in online learning. Introduction of metaverse takes it one level higher by providing a memorable learning experience. You will get to see realistic simulations and will be able to practice new skills in an environment devoid of risks.

  • Collaborative Learning

Online learning is convenient and effective. This year, online learning will focus more on creating a community-like environment, with the learning programs involving interactivity and collaboration.

  • Personalized Learning

This year, online learning focuses more on the requirements of the learner—what exactly they need to gain from the courses they choose. There is an increase in choices available for on-demand and self-paced learning that allows learners to fit the learning program into their schedule.

Online Learning is the Future of Education

Online learning is said to be the future of education, which means it has much more to offer in the upcoming years. The following reasons justify the statement.

  • Flexibility

Online learning allows both students and educators to create a learning pace that fits their schedule. Also, it tends to create a balance between learning and taking up other responsibilities that learners do not have to give up one thing to pursue the other. Online learning also improves your time management skills, allowing you to manage everything without any issues.

  • Plenty of Learning Programs

Whether it is for your higher studies or to learn new skills, there are a wide variety of online learning programs to choose from. Educational institutes are providing online versions of their programs at different levels. Students can get their certificates without actually going to the campus.

  • Accessibility

The best part of online learning is that you can learn or teach from any part of the world. There is no hassle of commutation and related extra expenses. All you need is a working Internet connection.

  • Customized Learning

Conventional mode of learning sometimes requires you to learn everything that is actually needed and not needed. Online learning is, however, flexible according to the requirements and ability of the learners. Also, the one-on-one learning sessions with educators give chances for more interactions and feedbacks.

Learners can also access different types of study materials, and online forums and discussions that provide them with greater opportunities to learn.

  • Cost Effective

In-person learning requires extra expenses, such as transport, rent, study materials, etc., all of which can be saved by opting for online learning. Also, there are many payment options that allow you to pay for the courses in instalments or per class basis. There are also discounts and scholarships available that make online learning affordable.

  • What to Expect in The Future?

In the future, there will be more online learning tools and technology that would cater to the needs of educators and learners. That would make the online learning a definite part of the future of education.

  • New Learning Environment

With new advancements in teaching and learning that would emerge in the future, normal video conference tools and existing platforms will not be enough. Therefore, we will get to see better learning environments with tools and platforms that are flexible, accessible, inclusive and collaborative.

  • Engaged Learning

Active learning has been found to have positive effects on academic performance of students. It improves focus and lets them grasp the concepts without any pressure. Therefore, there are chances that in future, online learning educators would adopt methods to drive engagement.

  • Flexibility

Online learning is flexible, in terms of the requirements and abilities of learners. However, the future would see another level of flexibility in online learning with fully live, virtual classes and different hybrid combinations. It will solidify the method of learning from anywhere, anytime, using any device.

  • Connected Learning

Conversations, group work, feedback and similar collaborative learning methods are very helpful in creating a positive learning experience. In the future, we might see online learning platforms that allow students to stay connected with educators.

  • Insights

There are already many tools available to check the learning progress. Future online learning platforms will have integrated tools that might provide real-time learning data and insights that not only improve the performance of students, but also the way educators teach.

The advantages it has over traditional learning, the convenience and efficiency are all factors that are influencing learners to turn to online learning. Also, you can take up online learning programs by being an officially registered student at an educational institution. You can also gain access to the same resources as an on-campus student. The best part is you will be awarded with degrees and certifications in the same way as taking a degree program on campus, but with the freedom of choosing your own study schedule.

That is why there is a general belief that online learning would definitely be an important part of education in the coming years. You just have to keep yourselves updated about the upcoming trends and brace yourselves to experience the best of online learning.

As the name implies, online learning is a way of teaching in which classrooms and subject matter are all covered virtually. Traditional learning occurs in person, where students attend face-to-face classes at pre-determined time.

Get Best Free Art Learning Apps (Check it Now)

Below we have mentioned the pros and cons of both Online and In-Person learning.

The Pros of Online Learning

Online courses can provide you with a wealth of benefits that help you grow professionally and personally.

1. FLEXIBILITY : – You can learn from any location with online learning. You can finish your tasks whenever you like, as long as you satisfy the weekly deadlines. You have greater flexibility working your education schedule around other commitments in your life, such as your family, profession, and other duties, owing to the flexibility that online learning gives.

2. TIME AND MONEY SAVING :- It is a major advantage of online learning that you don’t have to commute to the school/college campus to take classes. That means you can complete your coursework earlier and allocate more time to your other priorities.

3. WIDER NETWORKING POSSIBILITIES :- If you take an online course, you can interact with other students around the world. This could lead to professional opportunities you wouldn’t have had in a traditional classroom setting. It’s easy to be a passive participant, but if you’re investing the time and money, it’s much more fulfilling to take advantage of networking opportunities.

Also Read: How Does Online Education Differ From Traditional Education

The Cons of Online Learning

1. NEED FOR SELF-MOTIVATION :- Need to complete self-paced courses on schedule, you’ll need to be extremely disciplined. If you delay, it may be more difficult to enjoy the full benefits of online education if you don’t have a tight class schedule to motivate you to attend a class at a specific time and location every week.

2. DISTRACTION :- Some people don’t have the luxury of a calm study environment. If your home environment is cluttered and full of distractions, such as screaming children or a noisy surrounding neighborhood, it may be hard to concentrate on your studies.

The Pros of Learning in Person

1.  DISTRACTION-FREE ENVIRONMENT :- Effective education requires concentration and focus. Classrooms, labs, and lecture halls provide distraction-free learning settings with all of the equipment and space you need, allowing you to focus on the lesson rather than the bothersome vehicle noise, or other disturbance noises during household work.

2. PRACTICAL LEARNING :- Everyone learns differently, and some students learn visually, while others prefer to take meticulous notes, and yet others prefer to learn by interacting. Additionally, some professions, such as learning to fix equipment or perform a medical procedure, require practical knowledge. In-Person Learning is a better option for those who need practical knowledge.

The Cons of Learning in person

1. LESS CONTROL OVER SCHEDULING :- You have significantly less control in a traditional classroom than you have in an online class over when and where you attend lectures. You might consider an online class if you have a busy schedule or if your availability fluctuates. You will have more control over your class schedule as a result of this.

2. COMMUTING DIFFICULTIES :- You’ll have to commute to and from campus if you take classes in person. Based on your living situation, this might take up a lot of your time and money. If you’re thinking about enrolling in an on-campus education, consider the difficulties of your daily commute.

3. HIGHER EXPENSES :- Due to relevant factors like student housing, on-campus meals, and public transportation or fuel for commuting, traditional students face higher expenses.

Get Best Free Art Learning Apps (Check it Now)

Conclusion :- The benefits and drawbacks of learning in person or online depend on many factors, including how much each student learns and how well teachers can teach. The costs of both learning styles, and the flexibility they provide, should be considered when choosing one. Recently, students have been exposed to both styles of learning and have become aware of their learning preferences because of recent situations. Although there are varying viewpoints regarding which method of learning is the most effective, it is up to each individual to determine which method works best for them or their kids in today’s competitive environment.

When it comes to online education and traditional education, there are benefits and drawbacks, which is why students should be aware of what to expect before attending a classroom or logging into one. In this comparison, we’ll look at some crucial areas where students’ experiences can differ significantly.

What is online education

Online learning is a type of distance learning that takes place over the internet, with the teacher providing a course at a specific time (synchronous) or the students completing a course at their own pace (asynchronous). The content is delivered in the form of text, images, or videos. Features such as online assessments may be included, as well as interactive activities.

Also Read: What is Distance Learning: What are it’s Benefits?

What is traditional education?

Traditional Educational Class

Education traditionally takes place in a classroom. A teacher plans and teaches a specific topic lesson, using a variety of educational tools. For example, the teacher might present information on a blackboard or whiteboard, conduct classroom discussions, have groups or partners complete tasks, and engage students in individual exercises. Assign homework, class quizzes, or conduct informal assessments are part of the class.

Flexibility Factor

One of the most important factors to consider when weighing your options is how much time and energy you have each day to dedicate to your studies. Will you be able to attend full-time school/college or do you need more flexibility to accommodate your busy life.

In the first place, the most obvious benefit of online education is its flexibility. It allows you to work, support a family, and take classes all at the same time. Moreover, online classes also have deadlines, which gives students more control over how they spend their time. They can plan when to study, work on projects or assignments, attend lectures, and so on.

There is frequently a lack of flexibility in a traditional class format. You must attend your classes in person, which normally involves a commute and stringent scheduling. However, there are still a number of flexible class options available. If you want to take classes on a school/college campus, you can look for a school that can let you plan a schedule that fits your need.

Educational Apps Directory List

Self-Discipline and Self-Motivation Factor

As previously said, attending school or college classes online provides students with greater freedom and control over their education. This, in return, requires a high level of self-discipline and self-motivation. You must be able to encourage yourself to finish essential reading and projects in an online class. You need to be able to manage your time effectively. However, these capabilities are also needed in traditional education.

Online lessons may be a good fit for you if you can work independently and manage your time properly. If you find it difficult to keep up with an online class, a more traditional environment can be more beneficial. It’s important to remember that becoming fully adjusted to online learning takes time. Setting a daily schedule and setting up a private workspace is just a couple of tactics you might use to ease into online education.

Social Interaction Factor

Many people wish for the traditional college experience, which includes classrooms, whiteboards, and walking around campus. Some people prefer to meet their teachers and classmates in person, and some people learn better that way. A traditional classroom format may benefit you if you are more of a social learner.

One common misperception about online education is that it does not require any interaction. In reality, your classmates and teachers are right at your fingertips! Collaborative resources such as Blackboard and video conferencing software are frequently used in online classes to stimulate regular exchanges, discussions, and brainstorming.

“E-Learning  – education conveyed via electronic means”

There may be other insignificantly different definitions, but this could be considered succinct.

E-Learning is so ubiquitous and vast that it’s difficult to articulate a concise outline that truly does the word justice.

What exactly is the spur in created by e-learning and its various aspects. Let us briefly witness each facet of the trend.

Get Best Free Art Learning Apps (Check it Now)

Concept of e-learning

eLearning is imparting and facilitating knowledge on media, electronic devices like that on the Internet, CD-ROMs, and DVDs, streaming media etc.

It has drifted the method of learning imparted to the students. Unlike conventional chalk and board style of schooling, eLearning makes giving and receiving simpler, prolific, and productive. Shortly, it is the method of teaching purely through technology.

The word e-learning is used synonymously with virtual knowledge, online education, computer-based training, web-based knowledge, and networked education. Whatever may be the explanation of e-learning, it is revamping the style traditional academia teaches and the learners grasp.

Purpose of e-learning

The idea of e-learning is to empower learners to absorb personal accomplishment, basic schooling or to obtain a degree certificate, without actually attending the school or university or any other academic institute.

Another idea is to apply E-learning to all levels of schooling to ensure students grasp the lessons adequately.

Psychologists believe that audio-visual  method of teaching creates a disciplined learning environment and fosters effective student engagement in the class.

The next benefit of learning online or on electronic media assures you are in sync with advanced learners. Also, digital and self-initiated learning can be acquired at the desired locations. One need not wander in search of learning.

eLearning is versatile and ample to suit all learning methods.

Teacher app ad banner

Types of e-learning

e-Learning eventuates in many forms and at times is the blend of the following:

·         Completely online – no vis-a-vis meetings

·         Mixed Learning – A blend of online and direct communication

·         Synchronous- the communication between the provider and receiver happen directly as in chat rooms, or video-audio conferencing.

·         Asynchronous- The information is passed through forums, emails, wikis etc

·         Self-study

·         Web-based learning

·         CD-ROMs

·         Audio and Visuals

Advantages of e-learning in education

The online learning style is best suited for all. This is a revolution in learning genre. The information, now, can be accessed, talked, absorbed and shared anywhere. E-Learning has made education easy for everyone including office-goers, housewives etc  without compromising much.

  • E-Learning is effective and powerful. It makes information easy to grasp and absorb. It imparts enhanced ability to learn and implement among the learners. The Audio-Visuals help in remembering knowledge for a longer time.
  • E-Learning let you be in sync with modern learners. This keeps you updated with the current trends.
  • Traditional classrooms, have mischievous elements to disturb the class. Whereas, eLearning provides expeditious delivery of lessons. There is no procrastinator in eLearning. It is a quick way of learning!
  • Lectures can be taken at any time and any number of times. In traditional classes, revisions are not that easy. Unlike traditional learning, if you have missed any lesson, you can always have it online.
  • E-Learning allows teachers a higher degree of coverage to deliver the content regularly. This ensures consistency in learning.
  • E-Learning is cost-effective as this method quick and easy. Long training period, infrastructure, stationary, travel expense etc is reduced.
  • It is a benefactor to those who feel nervous and disconnected in groups. It helps you learn without having to give up the comforts of the environment you are at ease with.

How e-learning helps students/benefits of eLearning to student

E-Learning has been an invaluable support for learners around the world. Earlier the access to knowledge was not accessible to all. Students with economic constraints, geographical boundaries or physical disabilities had scarce opportunities in the academic province. The same now hold access to consistent education.

The modern learning method fetches you a refreshed version of knowledge accessible at convenience and shared with millions of people from different boroughs. It’s an ecstatic learning period for scholars far and wide. eLearning also offer greater collaboration and global opportunities to the learners.

Wrapping Up

The method compliments the requisites of the current era where in everyone is racing against time to fetch their share of affluence.

Due to the all-inclusive set of advantages, it offers to the learners, eLearning has matured into popular and apprehended way amongst scholars all around the world.

The process undoubtedly has its limitations. For those with hard economic background and lack of accessibility to technology it is definitely a long shot to exploit its luxury to the fullest. The unprivileged population of developing countries are saddled with this phase of digital divide.

Get Best Free Art Learning Apps (Check it Now)

But with an attempt to make internet more affordable and far reaching, it is possible to bridge the gap between low income community and tech access to dissipate the plight of economic divide.

E-learning with its burgeoning influence in the educational galaxy will open portals to unexplored  pathways giving rise to new opportunities.

Also Read:- How Does Online Education Differ From Traditional Education

Learning is an ongoing process and you are really blessed if you get a chance to study in your life. It doesn’t matter much on how you perceive your education but what matters is the way you apply it in your real life.

A majority of the students are regular school or college goers and they gain their degrees by spending a major part of their day at the institution. However, the trend is slowly changing as many of the students are now opting for online courses. And there are enough reasons for students to think different and get their education done online.

Get Best Free Student Apps (Check it Now)

Here are a few among the many reasons why many students are opting for online courses:

  1. Balance time flexibly: Are you running a family or taking care of your kids or parents and finding it difficult to attend a regular course? Then why not go for an online course and get your degree by balancing your time flexibly? Most of the online courses available let you perceive it without restrictions for the time flexibility. You can invest your free time in these courses and take care of your other priorities during the prime time.

 

  1. Learn despite time and place: Are you staying in a remote area and finding it difficult to make convenient transportation to good institutions in the city? The online courses make your dream of learning possible without the hassles of travelling kilometres daily. Online courses won’t demand students to learn in a particular time and this gives them the convenience of studying despite whether it is day or night. Thus you can balance the personal and professional life well.

 

  1. Learn and work in parallel: Some people might wish to learn more but have to get into a work to earn the living. The online courses offer the flexibility to learn on your free time by still pursuing the career. You can work on day time and spend a few hours for the course during night or weekend and manage both things efficiently. Some work demands a lot of travelling and this restricts the option for going for even weekend courses regularly. Online courses with flexible timing are a solution for such students also.

 

  1. Flexible schedules: When you opt for a regular class at campus, there is no compromise on the daily attendance. You have to be present for almost half of your day at the institution to pursue your dream. The advantage of studying in flexible schedules makes the online learning a plus for people with multiple areas to focus. This also gives them a chance to focus on different areas of study in parallel. Missing a class lesson due to fever or heavy rain is out of question in this approach.

 

  1. Student-centered curriculum: This type of learning in fact promotes the student-centered curriculum. Students would get a chance to share their decisions and be confident in their capacity. Their distinct aspirations, learning needs or areas of interest can be addressed well using this mode of study. This in fact develops their communication and social skills and triggers their intrinsic motivation to learn. They can easily identify the ways through which they can transfer their abilities to the real world.

 

  1. Access to online education materials: There is no trouble of carrying heavy text books to the school or college every day. You can have access to the wide range of online education materials with just an internet connection. Moreover, they can review notes, re-watch lecture videos or access other online resources at the time of their choice. There is no botheration of returning books on time to the library as you can refer to the materials that you need at your preferred time.

 

  1. Globally discuss online: The advanced online courses will have a global community of the student members who are taking the courses worldwide. So you will get a chance to discuss about the subject from different students globally which helps you to learn about the subject on a wider perspective. This also improves their online communication and everyone gets a chance to express their views which is not always practical in a traditional classroom.

 

  1. No limits to learning by geography: The flexibility to learn despite the place where you are living is what makes online learning this much special. So you don’t need to give up your dream of pursuing certificate in your preferred subject just because the institution near your home is not offering it. Similarly, students can get courses across the country or globe and thus erasing the barriers of limited students and instructor options.

 

  1. Improved computer skills: When you gain a degree by undergoing online courses, you would be more frequently using the system. So there is a good chance for you to become masters of the computer with good technical skills. The proficiency in using the system and web gained through online learning format are really going to help you in their professional life, as well.

 

  1. More choice of course topics: There may be limitations on the courses available if you plan to pursue your degree on a campus. However, online learning opens a world of choices and you can seek a degree of your favourite subject. Staffing limitations of your favourite subject no more stops you from pursuing what you really wish. The choice can be made from a wide variety of programs that open a world of opportunities for pursuing various careers.

 

  1. Accessibility of qualified teachers: Another important advantage of taking degrees online is the availability of subject experts. Many of the courses allow you to fix a schedule for learning with the subject expert of your choice from a group of qualified teachers. There are also options to send your doubts or queries regarding the subject to the teacher’s email and get a fairly quicker response.

 

  1. Convenient group meetings: Group projects can be more flexible than in a traditional classroom. They can discuss the project ideas and plans in the discussion corner and execute it well on time. There is no need to take trouble in coordinating a time or place for discussion unlike in a regular classroom setup. Moreover, this opens up a chance to grow your professional network and friendship.

 

  1. Learn from comfort zone: Some may not prefer to study by sitting at the desk for a longer period of time. Similarly, some others won’t prefer to wear uniforms and go by the school responsibilities to study their area of interest. Online learning is an excellent option for those who prefer to study from their comfort zone. They don’t need to sacrifice their time, place or other engagements and study at their comfort.

 

  1. Self-paced learning: Independent learners would always prefer to learn at their own pace without any restrictions or pressure. This is possible with online learning unlike the traditional classroom schedules and weekly exams. In this method, a student has the sole deciding power of what to study and when to study and this flexibility proves really good for independent learners. They can invest ample time for their other passions and give dedicated time for learning at their wish.

 

  1. Character development: An institution is considered the best place where a student develops interpersonal skills and many doubts that it will be missed in online courses. However, learning online is not that easy going as many think. This requires good time management skills as well as a lot of self-motivation. This is the most important skill a student should develop that gives him a self drive to do things in life. It also teaches how to meet deadlines without any external pressure which is going to help you a lot in the work place.

 

  1. Lower costs: Most importantly, you can save pretty decent money if you opt to take up courses online. The payment is needed for just the tuition fees, any book posts and the exam fees. Students can be free of the money they spend for housing and transportation. This helps them to avoid the possible debts and save more.

Get Best Free Student Apps (Check it Now)

If you are trying hard to balance the learning phase for any of the reasons, don’t leave up your dream to learn more. Instead, do a thorough research and join an online course of your favourite subject and enjoy the true spirit of learning. Even when you have enough degrees in your life, you can try your intelligence or excellence in different subjects by opting for various courses online and keep up the passion for learning.