The Internet is the largest set of computer networks that use
the Internet Protocol. The invention and development of the Internet was the
biggest discovery by mankind in the 20th century that lead to a revolution.
Today, the Internet is used by more than 50% of the world population as its
applications are found in nearly every fields of life, be it communication,
knowledge, news, shopping, marketing, entertainment, education, etc. So, how
exactly does the Internet technology benefit students for education? Let us take
a look at it in detail.
The fast and relatively low-cost access is one of the major benefits of Internet
to people and students all over the world as getting an Internet connection is
easy. Communication and information are the two most important uses of the
Internet. Secondly, information can be updated or modified at any time and for
any number of times, which helps in learning and better understanding.
As mentioned above, communication is one of the biggest advantages of the
Internet in education. Students can contact other students or their teachers via
the E-mail if they have queries about any information. Sharing of information,
discussions on a particular subject, etc., can be easily carried out using the
Internet. At the same time, teachers can also contact parents and guardians
easily using Internet.
The Internet can be most useful for completing projects in schools and colleges.
As the Internet is an ocean of information, covering nearly all subjects known
to man, one can find information, research work, etc., required for one's
projects. Going through the information on the Internet is definitely faster
than reading an entire book on the subject. Homework is also made easier with
the help of the Internet which is also one of the important uses of computers in
education.
Sometimes, an encyclopaedia may not always be available to students and they may
have difficulty in gaining access to the books in the library. In that case, the
encyclopaedia of various subjects available on the Internet can be helpful. This
is more useful for students who belong to communities not having English as
their mother tongue. Kids and younger children can also be benefited by the
Internet by using the pictures, videos, etc., which is one of the major
advantages, when comparing textbooks versus computer teaching.
All the latest news are constantly updated on the Internet on news sites.
Students learning politics, can have an access to all the current affairs
through the Internet in the school campus, at home, or at any other place.
Historical accounts like speeches, biographies, etc., are also easily available
on the Internet in detailed and accurate versions.
Another positive effect of Internet in education is the onset of distance
education or online learning. With this facility, you can take up short-term
courses with the course material available online, learn, and give exams. One of
the benefits of online learning is that people from any part of the world can
gain knowledge on different subjects, complete courses, etc.
Online courses provide an opportunity for people of all age groups to take up
education of their choice, according to their liking and wish. Be it a student,
a housewife, or a professional, they can just start up their computers, connect
to the Internet, and take virtual classes. Therefore, people can now gain
knowledge according to their need and time available. You are, now, never too
old or too busy to learn something new.
With these points, we find that the importance of Internet in education cannot
be denied, and hence, every student should be given access to the Internet for
deeper understanding and knowledge of a subject. However, lots and lots of
information can be termed as both, advantages and disadvantages of the Internet
as students can also have an access to unwanted or unethical information and
sites. Therefore, it is only wise for parents to make students understand what
is good and what not for them, or keep a watch on their surfing.
Lastly, although the Internet cannot replace books or classroom education, it is
one of the best substitute for those who wish to gain deeper knowledge on
literally every subject under the sun. Good luck!