What is online learning: Brief history, benefits & limitations
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We all know what online learning is. But do you know when and how it started to become what it is now? Schools, universities, businesses, coaches, and independent trainers all use online learning methods to make education more accessible and suited to our modern needs.
Technology is central in every aspect of our lives, and the education industry has been quick enough to adapt. How? By using digital platforms that allow us to offer learning outside the limitations of traditional classrooms.
If you are curious about the evolution of online education, as well as its possible implications for the future, we’ve got you. You’ll learn more about how you can teach and learn in the digital age.
Online learning meaning
Online learning, otherwise known as ‘elearning’, ‘digital learning’, or even ‘virtual learning’, refers to a broad spectrum of educational activities that are offered through digital tools.
The online learning meaning describes any form of education where instruction and learning take place over the internet and through digital learning tools or platforms. These may or may not include online learning platforms and learning management systems (LMS).
So, instead of traditional face-to-face interactions that take place in a physical classroom, online education relies on technology to deliver content, but also to allow communication between instructors and learners, and to assess the progress of learners.
💡 Keep learning: Online classes vs traditional classes
History of online learning: A review on the evolution
The first trace of online learning goes back to the development of computing technology and, of course, the Internet. We are looking into the mid-20th century, when pioneers just began exploring the potential of technology with the goal to improve the educational journey.
If you want to understand the history of online learning and how it has grown through the years, let’s go over its key milestones.
These milestones are important because they set the stage for the big shift from early distance learning experiments to the creation of the digital education systems we’ve come to know today.
Below you’ll find more details on the early developments that made it possible.
Early experiments in distance education
Between the 1950s and the 1960s, the early experiments with computer-based instruction prepared the groundwork for what would later become online learning.
PLATO programs – ‘Programmed Logic for Automatic Teaching Operations’, introduced interactive learning experiences through computer terminals that were connected to centralized mainframe computers. So, how did these systems help exactly? They allowed students to view course materials, complete assignments, and communicate with instructors remotely.
A few years later, the idea of distance learning gave wings to this evolution.
Then, institutions like the UK’s Open University and the US’s University of Phoenix were the first to try out distance learning models, as well as postal mail, radio broadcasts. Eventually, these early forms of online communication were used to reach remote learners for distant education.
The internet revolution
The increasing use of the Internet in the 1990s was a key turning point in the development of elearning as well. The World Wide Web offered greater access to information and communication, allowing the development of web-based learning platforms and the ability to create online training courses.
In 1983, the online educational network ‘Electronic University Network’ (EUN) became available for use on Commodore 64 and DOS computers. And, the first course to be completely held online was launched one year later by the University of Toronto.
Other educational institutions, corporations, and individuals then began exploring the potential of the Internet to deliver educational content.
Advancements in learning management systems (LMSs)
The late 20th to early 21st century was the time we saw the rise of learning management systems (LMSs). These tools offer a centralized space for delivering, managing, and tracking online learning activities.
Platforms such as Moodle (Modular Object-Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment), which was the first open-source LMS, changed the way educational content was delivered. It also enabled the collaboration between instructors and learners in virtual environments.
How did it start? Learners were using a downloadable desktop application, and from there, they would choose which content they wanted to export to their computers.
The rise of massive open online courses (MOOCs)
In the 2010s, massive open online courses (MOOCs) brought even more change to online learning.
MOOC platforms started offering free or low-cost access to courses from leading universities and institutions worldwide. MOOCs meant open and accessible online education, and gathered discussions related to the future of traditional higher education, but also lifelong learning.
Continued innovation and expansion
Online learning continues to grow today as it sees major advancements in technology, pedagogy, and learning science.
Since the millennium, the elearning industry has grown by 900% and by the end of 2025 is going to triple. The global elearning market will reach $336.98 billion in 2026, and by 2032, the total value projection will hit a trillion.
Already, data shows that around 90% of organizations offer digital learning for employee training and development. This only confirms its crucial role in corporate environments as well.
💁🏼 Find out how to build a great online corporate training program.
There is no doubt that adaptive learning, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence are also reshaping the environment of online learning. How exactly? By providing learners with more personalized, immersive, and engaging educational experiences that have real impact on their personal and professional lives.
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Types of online learning
Online learning today offers several tools and resources that are designed to meet the needs of learners across multiple industries and, of course, levels of expertise.
It takes the form of educational content and activities that are delivered online. And, online courses, lectures, video tutorials, quizzes, presentations, webinars and live classes are a few great examples.
The main types of online learning are the following.
Synchronous learning
This involves real-time interaction between instructors and students, often through video conferencing tools (like Zoom or Skype), chat rooms, or virtual classrooms.
Synchronous learning mimics the structure of traditional classroom instruction, with scheduled instructor-led lectures and real-time discussions.
Asynchronous learning
In asynchronous mode, learners access course materials and get to complete assignments at their own pace. While there may be deadlines for assignments and exams, online learners have the flexibility of when and where they engage with the content.
You can offer asynchronous learning via prerecorded lectures, discussion forums, online quizzes, and other interactive elements used by virtual schools.
Blended learning
Also known as hybrid learning, this approach mixes online instruction with face-to-face interactions. Learners can attend some classes in person while completing others online.
Blended learning offers the benefits of both traditional and online education, which is great because it provides the option to engage directly with other instructors and peers.
Key benefits of online learning
Online learning offers several advantages. Apart from the accessibility it provides learners, and helping them overcome the geographical or scheduling constraints, it also offers flexibility in the pace of learning and scheduling learning activities.
On top of this, it can support a variety of educational resources, diverse learning styles, and personalized learning.
Here are some of the key benefits of online learning in a nutshell:
Understanding these benefits and multiple facets of online learning is key, so let’s take a closer look at each.
Flexibility and accessibility for learners
Online learning allows learners to access educational resources and participate in self-paced learning programs that fit perfectly into their daily schedules.
Compared to traditional brick-and-mortar classrooms with fixed schedules, online education caters to the different needs of students. It doesn’t matter whether they are full-time working professionals who want to work on their skills or individuals who have busy lifestyles.
What’s great is that online learning breaks down geographical barriers, enabling learners from remote or underserved areas to access high-quality education that may not have been possible otherwise. There is 24/7 access to learning material encourages learners to take control of their education the way they want.
Cost-effectiveness and scalability
One of the most significant advantages of online learning is its cost-effectiveness and scalability. Did you know that you can offer online courses at a fraction of the cost of traditional education?
This affordability makes education more accessible to a wider audience, including those who have limited financial resources or can’t even afford traditional tuition fees.
Online learning platforms are all about scalability, and because of this, institutions can accept a larger number of students even though they still might not have the physical space or resources (eg, instructors) for it. This scalability is also great for businesses that want to expand their educational offerings or reach new markets.
Customization and adaptability to diverse learning styles
The same platforms also offer a wide range of tools and resources that meet different learning needs and preferences. Their features can personalize the learning experience to suit every learner.
The options learners have are plenty since they:
Want more? Online courses often offer various multimedia elements, such as videos, animations, and gamification, to help you increase learning engagement and retention.
Some platforms with advanced features like LearnWorlds, even go the extra mile, offering you the ability to communicate with your learners, as well as learners communicating with their peers, via online discussion boards, in private or public groups, and as part of a bigger online learning community.
Give LearnWorlds a spin and explore its awesome capabilities. Get your free trial today!
Global reach and democratization of education
Online learning ignores geographical boundaries, and offers access to education for anyone around the world. Regardless of location or time zone, learners can connect with instructors and peers with just a click of a button.
This global reach promotes cross-cultural exchange, collaboration, inclusivity and diversity. Those are qualities that a positive learning environment values.
Apart from that though, online courses often offer language localization options. That is to make educational content accessible to non-native speakers and individuals with different language preferences.
With such a level of access to learning, online education gives individuals from all walks of life to go after their academic and professional goals, regardless of their socio-economic status or geographic location.
Challenges of online learning
Despite its advantages, though, online education also presents challenges. These include the constant need for reliable internet access and proper computer equipment.
It also needs the self-discipline of learners to stay motivated and comes with potential limitations that relate to social interaction as well as hands-on learning experiences.
Some of the key challenges of online learning are the following:
Now, let’s examine these downsides in greater detail as well.
Social isolation and lack of face-to-face interaction
Without the physical presence of classmates and instructors, online learners may miss out on spontaneous discussions, group activities, and nonverbal cues that help communication and relationship-building in traditional classrooms. This lack of social interaction can have a huge impact on the engagement of learners but also their satisfaction with the learning experience.
Technical difficulties and hands-on learning
Online learners may face challenges accessing course materials, participating in virtual sessions, or submitting assignments because of technical glitches or outages. These disruptions which can’t always be controlled, can doubt the reliability and effectiveness of online learning platforms.
When such problems occur, offering hands-on learning experiences becomes even more difficult. Lab experiments, fieldwork, or technical training may be impractical or insufficiently replicated in online environments. And this limits opportunities of futher exploration, observation, and skill development.
If you combine online learning with on-site learning, though, you can allow learners to choose subjects that require practical application and experiential learning opportunities.
Self-motivation and potential distractions
Without the structure and supervision the traditional classroom offers, online learners will need to have strong self-discipline, time management, and intrinsic motivation to stay on track with their coursework and meet deadlines.
No external pressure and accountability means it will be challenging for some learners to maintain focus and consistency in their studies. Online learning is convenient but it can bring more distractions into play. Then learners will need to find other strategies to minimize them or better yet create their own study space to keep them at bay.
As a course creator, you’ll also need to use strategies to engage learners for course completion.
You can try adding more interactive elements, setting clear milestones, and offering regular feedback.
💁🏼 Explore this guide on how to increase student engagement in online learning.
Quality assurance and accreditation concerns
Learners must be extra careful when assessing the reputation, accreditation, and instructional quality of online programs.
Poorly designed or unaccredited courses may fail in giving them what they need. This only stresses the importance of thorough research before selecting the online learning opportunities they are considering. Besides, they need to make them count towards their educational and career goals.
💁🏼 Here are 13 things to consider when determining the value of your online course.
Need a quick summary? Check out this breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages of online learning.
Is online learning effective?
After weighing the benefits and challenges of online learning, it becomes easy to see that effectiveness depends pretty much on how you approach online education.
When courses are designed and supported by the right tools, online learning can match or even surpass traditional classroom outcomes. Features like self-paced modules, multimedia content, and ongoing assessments can support learner engagement and boost knowledge retention.
To reduce the online education issues we mentioned — isolation, inconsistent engagement, and limited hands-on experience, we need learner-centered environments. This strategy includes offering structured content, regular check-ins, and interactive elements that will encourage student participation and accountability.
At the end of the day, the most effective online learning experiences are those that balance flexibility with strong instructional support and clear learning outcomes.
How does online schooling work?
Online schooling works best when combining structured content with flexible delivery to support diverse learning needs. Students typically log into a learning platform to access lessons, submit assignments, take quizzes, and track their progress.
Depending on the program, learners might follow a set schedule with live sessions or work on their own while going through self-paced modules. Their daily routines may include watching recorded lessons, completing interactive activities, participating in group discussions, or meeting instructors in virtual classrooms.
This format is a good fit for learners who need flexibility but still value structure, feedback, and a clear path leading to successful course completion.
Modern uses of elearning
Today, elearning is used in a variety of settings beyond traditional education.
In the workplace, for example, online learning plays a central role in training, development, and performance support. Many businesses are relying on digital learning platforms to deliver instruction across their teams and in different locations.
This level of flexibility of online learning allows instructors to tailor content to different needs, schedules, and delivery formats.
The most common modern uses of elearning include:
These examples of elearning highlight how the method serves both formal and informal educational goals. Platforms like LearnWorlds support these varied use cases as it offers customizable tools for flexible course creation, learner engagement, and performance tracking.
What can you do to improve the online learning experience?
Being able to experiment with education is one of our biggest assets. Today, we can address and resolve even the hardest challenges effectively. And we can do that by staying creative, flexible, and open to trying new things.
This goes out to the educators and online instructors of tomorrow. To make digital learning work, all you need is a dream and a passion project. Once you have that, you’re set for success.
For the online learning environment to be as inclusive and effective as it should be, you need only one thing: to think about which instructional methods and strategies you are using, as well as your equipment.
Pedagogical considerations and instructional design challenges
To get this right, we need to go over some key pedagogical considerations and instructional design practices. Below are some educational principles and strategies you need to remember when creating online learning experiences.
Pedagogical considerations
These are the principles and theories of teaching and learning that guide the design of online courses. Pedagogical considerations can help you understand how students learn best and select appropriate instructional methods and strategies to facilitate learning online.
This may include active learning, learner-centered approaches, scaffolding of content, and the use of formative learner assessments to evaluate learners’ understanding.
💁🏼 Need help with course design? Accelerate course design with 18 proven course templates
Instructional design challenges
These refer to the potential obstacles that you may face when creating effective online learning experiences. These are:
Once you find a solution to these issues, you’ll be able to create online courses your learners will love. Using the right tools to achieve this, though, is essential.
What to look for in online course platforms, LMS technology, and other tools for scalable online education experiences
The tools you’ll pick to create scalable online education experiences have to offer the right capabilities, functionality, as well as support to give you the innovative solutions you need.
Below are the must-have features that you’ll need to make sure your chosen online learning platforms or LMS solution offers:
Lead the change as a course creator: Provide the best online learning for students with LearnWorlds
In this article, we explored the evolution of online learning, looking into its early days in computer-based instruction to its current status.
As we’ve seen, online learning for students holds a central role in modern education as it offers access to learning and travels beyond geographical borders. Right now, there are several opportunities to teach online and monetize knowledge while educating learners from all around the world.
When you familiarise yourself with those key pedagogical approaches to create interactive learning environments, you can build value-packed online courses that will cater to the unique needs and preferences of your own learners.
Start building your online academy by leveraging a robust learning platform like LearnWorlds. Try it out for free today.
Kyriaki is a Content Creator for the LearnWorlds team writing about marketing and e-learning, helping course creators on their journey to create, market, and sell their online courses. Equipped with a degree in Career Guidance, she has a strong background in education management and career success. In her free time, she gets crafty and musical.
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