INTRODUCTION:

The dangerous and deadly pandemic Corona Virus also widely recognized as Covid-19 has profoundly influenced the worldwide economy. This misfortune has additionally stirred up the academic arena, and this dread is probably going to resound across the higher educational institutions imparting education worldwide.

The Covid-19 pandemic has spread its tentacles and this flare-up constrained numerous schools and universities to stay shut for a brief time initially; but as soon as the 1^st wave of covid-19 eased out and cases and positivity rate declined, higher educational institutions in several parts of the world including in some parts of India resumed physical delivery of lectures and reopening of institutions while following social distancing norms; but with the advent of second wave, lockdown across various parts of the nation and the rising fear among the parents to send their wards off to schools and colleges due to risk of infection, educational institutions again decided to shut down and suspend classes and it’s been more than a year now that classes have been continuing on online platforms such as Microsoft teams, Google Meet, Zoom, etc. and online learning has been the go to mode of learning new things.

The government and expert committees in various countries across the world had also suggested adopting online teaching and learning mode, as no one can predict with certainty when the pandemic will end and things can be restored back to normal. So, in order to continue the pace of education and teaching-learning even in the midst of ongoing pandemic, it was considered pertinent for the educational institutions to adopt online learning. Educational institutions would have struggled to provide learning opportunities, if there would not be any digital technology that would come to their aid. As educational institutions continued to battle to discover alternatives to manage in this difficult time of crisis, online learning and teaching platforms came to their rescue. There is a critical need to secure and save our students, faculty, academic staff, communities, societies, and the nation as a whole and herein, the role of online learning becomes very important because it allowed the institutions to continue to operate even in the midst of pandemic without wasting the precious academic hours of the student community at large.

Several arguments are related with e-learning. Accessibility, affordability, flexibility, learning instructional method, long lasting learning, and strategy are a portion of the contentions identified with online teaching method. The foremost benefit about the online mode of education is that it helps set a common standard of education for all and a large number of people can be educated using the same resources which can increase the pool of people that can benefit from learning opportunities exponentially. Likewise the scope of online training is considerably more immense than that of the conventional type of teaching methods adopted across various higher educational institutions.

It is said that online method of learning is effectively open and can even reach to provincial and distant regions. It is viewed as a generally less expensive method of instruction as far as the lower cost of transportation, convenience, and the general expense of organization based learning is concerned. Adaptability is another intriguing part of web based learning; a student can plan their time for effective utilization and fruition of courses accessible on the web and complete.

The severe explosion of Corona Virus disease can make us add one more argument in terms of online learning, that is, online learning serves as a panacea in the time of crisis.

LITERATURE REVIEW:

The world has confronted a major health crisis as COVID-19 has spread globally. As a result of COVID-19, higher education has moved to deliver courses online during Spring 2020 (Ali, 2020; Daniel, 2020; Hodges, Moore, Lockee, Trust, and Bond, 2020; Murphy, 2020). Quick advancements in innovation have made distance schooling simple (Mc Brien et al., 2009).

To lessen transmission of the COVID-19, a few nations set up measures on contamination avoidance and control by restricting contact between individuals (WHO, 2020). Governments recommended or requested physical distancing and development limitations (CDC, 2020). Advanced education networks intended to moderate the spread of the infection by securing students, staff, and workforce and to help guarantee a protected and solid learning climate (Cao et al., 2020; CDC, 2020; Huang et al., 2020). Numerous school grounds and colleges progressed to distant/remote or online learning where classes were held on the web (Ali, 2020; Crawford, Butler-Henderson, Rudolph, and Glowatz, 2020; Huang et al., 2020). Online or remote education implies that students are physically distant from the instructors and require a delivery method (Wang, Shannon, and Ross, 2013; Wilde and Hsu, 2019). The interaction between students and teachers is mediated by technology, and the design of learning environments (e.g., space where learning occurs) can have considerable influence on learning outcomes (Bower, 2019; Gonzalez et al., 2020; Wang et al., 2013). Online education has been studied for decades and effective online teaching is the result of careful instructional design and planning (Hodges et al., 2020).

"The majority of the terms (web based learning, open learning, online learning, PC interceded learning, mixed learning, e-learning, for ex.) share for all intents and purpose the capacity to utilize a PC associated with an organization, that offers the likelihood to gain knowledge from anyplace, whenever, in any form, with any sort of means available" (Cojocariu et al., 2014). Online learning can be named as a mode that can make the education and learning environment more focused on student development, more inventive, and surprisingly more adaptable. Web based learning is characterized as "learning encounters in simultaneous or offbeat conditions utilizing various gadgets (e.g., cell phones, PCs, and so on) with web access. In these conditions, learners can be at any place to learn and interact and establish an interface with educators and different other students" (Singh and Thurman, 2019). The simultaneous learning climate is organized as in students/learners go to live talks, there are continuous connections among instructors and students, and there is a chance of moment criticism, while offbeat learning conditions are not appropriately organized. In such a learning climate, learning content isn't accessible as live talks or classes; it is accessible at various learning frameworks and gatherings. Instant feedback and quick reaction are unrealistic under such a climate (Littlefield, 2018). Simultaneous learning can give a great deal of freedoms to social collaboration (McBrien et al., 2009). In the midst of this destructive infection spread such online stages are required where (a) video conferencing with at any rate 40 to 50 learners is conceivable, (b) conversations with learners should be possible to keep classes natural, (c) web associations are acceptable, (d) lectures that are streamed are easily accessible to students not only through PCs but also cell-phones, (e) probability of observing effectively recorded talks, and (f) moment criticism from students can be accomplished and tasks can be taken (Basilaia et al., 2020).

Castro, M.D.B., Tumibay, and G.M. have stated extensively in their paper that the Internet has made web based learning conceivable, and numerous instructors and scientists are keen on web based learning courses to upgrade and improve the student learning outcomes while combating the deficiency of resources, facilities and equipments in academic institutions. Web based learning has become famous in view of its potential for giving more access to content and guidance whenever, from any spot. It is necessary that the experts and specialists consider, and inspect the viability of web based learning in instructing students. For this examination, the scientists assessed writing through meta-investigation as the strategy for research concerning the utilization of ADDIE (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation and Evaluation) structure for planning and creating informative materials that can give more extensive access for providing quality education in academic institutions. The researchers thoroughly examined each paper and found 30 articles that met the efficacy of online learning courses through having well-planned, well-designed courses and programs for higher education institution.

However, students have expressed stress associated with online learning and difficulties when completing any academia work. Understanding students’ challenges and preferences will be valuable to educational institutions as they can then develop strategies to help students just in case there's another wave of Coronavirus as has been predicted or any other disaster that needs an emergency transition to remote learning. The government also recognizes the increasing importance of online learning in this dynamic world and instructed academic institutions to make it a part of curriculum to some extent even after pandemic situation eases in future.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY:

The study is descriptive and attempts to comprehend the significance of web based learning in the time of an emergency and pandemics like the Covid-19. The issues related with internet learning and potential solutions to the problems were additionally recognized depending upon past examinations. The SWOC investigation was led to comprehend different pros, strengths, shortcomings, openings, and difficulties related with online method of obtaining education during this crisis situation.

The research methodology adopted for this article is descriptive research and content analysis has been adopted as the tool for analysing the information which has been gathered from various sources. The author has taken into consideration the qualitative aspects of the research study. The various sources of information utilized are (a) diaries, (b) reports, (c) web search tools, (d) organization sites and insightful articles, (e) research papers, and other scholarly distributions.

The objectives of the research are thus as follows:

· To comprehend the various strengths, pros, opportunities, weaknesses as well as challenges that are associated with online learning

· To shed light on how online learning is emerging as an alternative situation to traditional methods of learning in a crisis-like situation engulfing our country

· To give conclusion on successes of online learning methodology emerging as pathway of educational transformation in the world in the times of Corona

ANALYSIS, FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION:

Swoc Analysis of Digital Tools and Online Learning

Strengths and Opportunities Releated to Online/ Digital Learning:

Combining face-to-face lectures with digital lectures is referred to as blended form of learning-instructional method and this methodology of teaching has said to have received several positive comments from various academicians. It has stated by several people that this type of teaching-learning methodology, if followed rightly can increase the learning capabilities of the students exponentially. Students can learn anytime and anywhere, thereby developing new skills in the process leading to life-long learning. The government also recognizes the increasing importance of online learning in this dynamic world.

The major part of the world is on quarantine due to the serious outbreak of this global pandemic Covid-19 and therefore many cities have turned into phantom cities and its effects can be seen in schools, colleges, and universities too. Betwixt all this online teaching and online learning can be termed as the panacea for the crisis.

There are numerous benefits of online learning that specify why eLearning may be the greatest revolution in today’s education. Here are few of them:

· It provides a greater flexibility in terms of courses, content, schedules and timelines

· It provides an opportunity to learn at our own pace

· It is more cost effective and affordable

· It provides an opportunity to create our own learning environment

· Greater accessibility and ease of storage of the learning material

· Improved virtual communication and collaboration

· Greater access to the experts in the fields

· Advantages of better networking

· Better time management

· Demonstrated self-motivation

Online training is fundamentally utilizing interactive media devices and correspondence from the web for instructing. Presently now-a-days everyone is utilizing web for data. For any questions individuals search Google and the data is promptly accessible. To have a methodical training, students refer to online learning platforms. There is parcel of online training entryways accessible presently. For example, Byju's App. They give part of specialized based online training through recordings by educators. Since we are into the cutting edge time of technology being super edgy, being inventive is a must. Today everybody has a portable tab or mobile in their grasp, independent of the pay levels, sex, and work necessities. According to the measurements accessible just 1 out of 50 individuals doesn't have a cell phones. Cell phones are an aid for online schooling. Twenty years prior, it was very hard to convey top notch guidelines through the Internet. In any case, today it's anything but a reality in this advanced age. There are over a million students who have enrolled for on the web instruction courses and the best part is the numbers are as yet developing. Online schooling has a distinctive methodology instead of customary type of learning. In online training, there is very almost no eye to eye connection among educators and students. In the majority of the cases it's a one path type of correspondence actually like the radio.

The popularity of online learning obviously recommends that students learn in a superior manner through a blend of on the web training while supplementing them with traditional classroom set-up. Since online training is an exceptionally wide idea, there can be communication between instructors and students utilizing live talks and phone calls or perhaps through conversation board. Another effect of having online instruction framework is there is no time limitation to gain proficiency with the exercises. The students can also see the online recordings whenever they need to pause or go back to the lecture. With the help of online training, considering different students has gotten simple and intriguing. Now one can connect from anyplace at any time what's more interesting is that they can connect from anywhere in the world with the assistance of only a single navigation or click on their respective Internet-connected device. Another best thing is you can go through your exercises in the solace of your own home or in the agreeable climate of the coffeehouses or cafés. Online instruction helps you to gain proficiency with the genuine contextual analyses of mastery from the business. These industrialists and researchers are happy to respond to your inquiries and offer their insight through gatherings. Typically on the web schooling comprises of various educators who can show you the ideas in a savvy and creative way. Through online training, procuring information isn't so costly.

Practically all online instruction applications have a client care or helpline numbers to reply every one of your questions which is dynamic 24x7. Online instruction could possibly guarantee you the unmistakable way to credit, however yes it's a valuable wellspring of study material. These days online schooling is conveyed through schools or school online host learning stage yet a large portion of the programs are conveyed to students through innovations. There are numerous benefits or advantages of procuring on the web schooling. You can learn anything you are keen on through online instruction which additionally incorporates your energy without you having to resort to any type of inconvenience (for example venturing out or going to the college). Through online instruction, you can generally discover a program of your decision no matter where you reside or study. Online instruction is tied in with being in your usual range of familiarity.

Envision you simply need to sit at home and watch the exercises online as opposed to going in the public vehicle, sitting in an awkward seat, etc. Every one of your requirements and needs can be satisfied through online schooling. Through on the web training, the rundown of solace is excessively acceptable. The other beneficial thing is that it additionally relies on the person. It's said that online training looks much better on your resume. It doesn't matter that whether you get a degree or any program through physical mode or through on the web training. On a macro level, a well-accredited degree will consistently be a degree. Online instruction helps you in self - paced learning. It implies that students can complete their tasks whenever relying on their accommodation. This kind of learning assists you with acquiring beat. Another advantage of having online schooling is lower cost of training. Rather than paying an enormous measure of charges in the grounds, online training is a lot less expensive. The majority of the online instruction programs are free of cost.

The principle advantage of online instruction is "Adaptability". Seeking after an online program by remaining at home is a less tedious cycle. Online training assists you with getting a handle on things rapidly which implies it assists with looking over your abilities and information and helps you look proficient. Online schooling is quickly becoming worldwide because of the blast of the web based learning instruments and the selection of internet learning strategy by the top most establishments on the planet. It is exceptionally savvy in nature and it's the most ideal method of achieving of abilities and information free of charge. Experts and students can finish their tasks with no time limitation and access it anyplace and whenever as opposed to burning through cash on purchasing books and on voyaging. All they need is to simply enlist with a couple of snaps on these on the web training entryways or applications. With the rising ubiquity of online training, experts and understudies presently don't need to sit in the study halls. They should simply essentially turn on the PC or cell phones and begin learning. Innovation has helped learning to be truly altered according to requirements of the students.

The Corona Virus has made establishments to go from disconnected mode to online method of instructional method. This emergency will make the organizations, which were prior hesitant to change, to acknowledge present day innovation. This fiasco will show us the rewarding side of web based instructing and learning. With the assistance of internet showing modes, we can lecture an enormous number of understudies students and in any piece of the world. All establishments should scramble various alternatives of online academic methodologies and attempt to utilize innovation all the more suitably. Numerous colleges all throughout the planet have completely digitalized their activities understanding the desperate need of this current circumstance. Web based learning is arising as a major alternative to traditional set-up in the midst of this confusion. Hence, the quality upgrade of internet instructing learning is vital at this stage.

Weakness and Challenges Related To E-Learning:

The various barriers to online learning can be described as resistance of faculty in adopting new technology in order to enhance effectiveness of online teaching/learning, lack of sufficient skills imbibed by the faculties, failure to project and fund the cost of web-based learning opportunities offered, and lack of a comprehensive approach to accommodate student mobility and non-traditional learners on the part of the educators or academicians who are resorting to online platforms in such times.

While on the part of the students a major challenge has been a transition from traditional mode of learning to online learning. Students also faced immense lack of resources such as lack of learning centres, lack of adequate infrastructure (since students were staying at home along with parents, lack of space in case of smaller houses led to) the lack of supporting resources (access to the online technological devices and the lack of interaction with the various professors, etc.) was an important challenge during the transition to online learning.

Due to pandemic, students across the globe had to shift from face-to-face instruction to an online learning platform in the middle of their ongoing academic year. Individuals have restricted data handling limit, and it is expected that combination of various learning modalities can bring about intellectual over-burden, affecting the capacity to adequately learn new data. In addition, if students lack trust in the innovative technology they have adopted and are utilizing or don't feel a feeling of intellectual commitment and social association, the outcome may influence contrarily the students' learning results (Bower, 2019).

A major challenge faced by the institutions while imparting online education during the pandemic is struggling to creating a sense and feeling of community in a virtual space on online teaching-learning platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft teams, Google Meet, etc. In focus groups, students reported feeling disconnected from their learning environment and peers.

The following additional problems are associated with web-based learning and challenges to educational transition associated with e-learning:

First and foremost, the online program which you are gaining ought to be authorized and of superior grade. In the event that you procure a degree which is of inferior quality and of no accreditation, it is of no use for your future profession advancement. Besides, online schooling doesn't guarantee you an individual association. Clearly there will be practically no connection between teachers and students. It is basic to have a correspondence among educators and individual students. Thirdly, in online instruction, the measure of work required is undeniably more than in on campus. You need to go through a ton of readings, tasks and target work in on the web instruction which is something tedious. The other disadvantage of online instruction is lack of motivation to study. There is nobody despite your good faith to advise you that you have tasks which should be done on schedule. This makes it simpler for you to hesitate. Finally in the event that you are bad at using time effectively, online training isn't your cup of tea.

The pandemic shone a bright light on how basic necessities--internet, food, housing, and access--are essential for students across the country to be able to access higher education. And for students of color and low-income students, this lack has only exacerbated their challenges in higher education. These unmet basic needs will have real consequences on students' educational trajectory, and ultimately, their life.

CONCLUSION:

Digital classrooms are considered as the vital element in promoting and improving the traditional methods of teaching and learning. In fact digital classrooms have truly transformed the landscape of educational process, and cause universal interactivity between academicians and learners as well as among learners themselves, all around the world. This global interactivity causes mutual understanding between teacher and learner, and among the learners. It also causes more adjustability of materials and methods, which are used in the process of education. So different educational organizations enter a competitive situation for promoting their materials and methods and the result is the improvement of learning and educational process.

The significance of traditional setup wherein classes are delivered physically in a face-to-face mode by lectures and educators across the world cannot be undermined in any which way but it is also true that the internet has undeniably created a niche for itself in the education sector.

Online learning supplements primary education and over time it is slowly and steadily becoming indispensable. Segregation because of social separating is by all accounts associated with students’ absence of inspiration to proceed with their coursework. 2020-2021 was a major experience to learn and adapt for those new to web-based learning, and numerous students and staff battled this problem. However, pushing ahead, these exercises learned, joined with knowledge gained by the students and staff insighst and the abundance of exploration on the web and in-person instructional method could make educating and learning more powerful and charming.

Innovation has had—and will keep on having—a critical effect on advanced education. Indeed, innovation will turn into a key differentiator in drawing in studies and corporate accomplices.

Online learning is acquiring a firm traction in colleges all throughout the planet. 66% of scholastics reacting say their establishments offer online courses. Many consider web based learning key to propelling their main goal—contacting individuals who may somehow or another not have the option to get to it.

Corporate-scholarly associations will shape an expanding a piece of the college experience. University respondents see innovation as emphatically affecting their campuses, yet recognize operational difficulties that thwart acknowledging full advantages.

Higher educational institutions are reacting to Globalization. Respondents say that having an abroad presence will be the standard for most of colleges over the coming year.

Despite having faced various struggles in the times of crisis, both students and colleges found ways to be creative and resilient, and even considered or engaged in practices that could make the higher education system more equitable. However, as the pandemic rages on and the light at the end of the tunnel remains far, institutions and students continue to face challenges that are exacerbating existing equity gaps. Institutions will need to continue to be creative and push themselves to embrace this opportunity to create a better, more equitable system for today's students.

Despite the fact that there are undeniably a bigger number of benefits than impediments, online schooling is obviously superior to customary learning because of its advantageous furthermore, less expensive structure. With the headways in the field of innovation, online training has become an upheaval. This implies that innovation is taking on the web training stages to unheard levels. In the coming days, the fame of online instruction will additionally rise and an ever increasing number of individuals will get into it thinking about the advancement in the field of innovation.

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Received on 18.06.2021 Modified on 29.06.2021

Res. J. Humanities and Social Sciences. 2021; 12(3):172-178.

DOI: 10.52711/2321-5828.2021.00028