Exploring the impact of online learning on university students' classroom interactions

Abstract

Online learning has evolved over the past 50 years, from early distance learning through postal systems to today's digital platforms. In recent years, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of online learning, resulting in increased enrollments and opportunities for learners to improve their skills and employment prospects. Interactional competence, which refers to the skills required for effective communication and support in virtual environments, is an important component of online learning. The development of interactional skills has a positive impact on learning outcomes, engagement, collaboration and social presence. Online learning has both positive and negative effects on classroom dynamics. Online platforms allow students to engage in a variety of ways regardless of geography, fostering diversity and accommodating a wide range of learning preferences. However, the lack of nonverbal cues and face-to-face interaction can hinder teacher-student connections and make it difficult to assess learning in real time. Recognizing these effects is critical to overcoming limitations and improving the quality of online education. Online learning has become a dynamic educational paradigm with both advantages and disadvantages. The digital transformation of education continues to change the learning experience, highlighting the need for interaction skills and overcoming barriers to ensure successful and meaningful online education.