[Opinion] Sample: Schools vs Internet

Schools are no longer necessary because children can learn through the Internet as well at home. Agree or not?

Some are doubting the necessity of educational institutions in learning as youngsters nowadays can also access useful information on the Internet within the comfort of their homes. In my opinion, I completely disagree with the above notion. 

For one, the inefficiency of an Internet-based education can be attributed to the lack of trained professionals in this environment. Whereas a teacher or tutor could guide children and validate whether or not certain information is correct, this is generally non-existent on the Internet. Although it is true that some online learning platforms such as Duolingo or Khan Academy come with step-by-step guide to scripted lessons on a plethora of subjects, these often do not come with live question and answer sessions, meaning students are often just limited to repetitive exercises instead of a more dynamic setting created by experienced educators in the classroom.

At the same time, there is very limited human interaction when it comes to learning online. As can be illustrated through a period of remote learning during the Covid pandemic, while lessons can still be delivered through the Internet, the isolation takes a toll on the psychological health of many students, especially those at a young age. During an early stage of their development, children not only require care from  parents or teachers, but also communication with their peers. Despite advancements in communication technology and the implementation of virtual classrooms such as Google Education or Microsoft Teams, touch is yet to be replicated. This ultimately means the ability to socialize with friends in a more intimate way is most likely removed.

All in all, while Internet-based courses are now still in effect for certain educational establishments, their implementation is at best of limited effectiveness. This is mainly due to the absence of guidance and the inadequacy of peer-to-peer interactions among students.