The Rise of Online Learning and Its Implications for Traditional Education
1Okoli Susan Nkechi, 2Ogbuka Ikenna Matthew and 2Anikwe Johnson Azubike
1Department of Human Kinetic and Health Education, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu Nigeria.
2Department of Political Science, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu Nigeria.
ABSTRACT
The rapid expansion of online learning in the 21st century, especially accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has significantly reshaped global educational systems. This paper explores the emergence and growth of online education, analysing its implications for traditional face-to-face learning. Through qualitative content analysis of academic literature, institutional reports, and global education data, the study highlights the benefits, challenges, and future directions of digital education. Key findings reveal that while online learning enhances accessibility, flexibility, and innovation, it also presents critical challenges such as digital inequality, infrastructural deficits, and diminished social interaction. The study recommends the adoption of hybrid learning models, increased investment in digital infrastructure, inclusive education policies, and continuous professional development for educators. The research concludes that rather than displacing traditional education, online learning should be integrated into a blended framework that ensures equity, resilience, and quality in the post-pandemic educational landscape.
Keywords: Online learning, Online education, Digital education, E-learning, Distance learning and COVID-19 pandemic
CITE AS: Okoli Susan Nkechi, Ogbuka Ikenna Matthew and Anikwe Johnson Azubike (2025). The Rise of Online Learning and Its Implications for Traditional Education. NEWPORT INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CURRENT RESEARCH IN HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES,5(3):85-90. https://doi.org/10.59298/NIJCRHSS/2025/5.3.859000