Positive experience and further prospects for online education

Abstract

The article focuses on the positive aspects of online education and discusses the lessons learned and effective practices that can be brought back into conventional face-to-face classes. Unlike numerous studies pointing out disadvantages of distance education, the authors contend that online education during the pandemic was quite efficient, enabling them to take away a lot of useful findings, techniques, and experiences. The paper describes the results of the study conducted among freshmen and sophomores, as well as lecturers of the Department of the English language and the administration of Baikal International Business School of Irkutsk State University. Using student and teacher questionnaires, a dean interview, and observation, the authors collect multiple psychographic, motivational, and behavioral data allowing to find out preferences and opinions of online education. As a result of their research, the authors come to the conclusion that the main outcomes of online teaching are more collaboration for course development and preparation of student assessment, the integration of MOOCS into conventional courses, the use of numerous interactive technologies and videoconferencing platforms for various purposes, more reflection on teaching and student learning, and more opportunities for professional growth. Overall, teachers report becoming more knowledgeable, better equipped, and more competent. Besides professional benefits, after overcoming the challenges of online teaching, the instructors seem to have become more stress-resistant and resourceful.