When you are staying at home, as it is the case for most people during the COVID-19 pandemic, you may utilize your time by learning English. Plans are changing and most people are finding something constructive to do. Most schools have closed their doors, but the good thing is that learning never stops. Therefore, there is an alternative to learning English online. This method of learning is challenging because one does not interact with the instructor and fellow students directly but it has its benefits too. This article explains the benefits offered by taking online ESL lessons.
The first benefit is that you get to learn while still in the comfort of your home. When you are taking online classes, you do not have to adjust your dressing style, your sitting position, and other luxuries that you enjoy when you are at home. However, you should create a study space that inspires you at home. This is because, even though not in physical contact, you will be able to interact with your teacher and fellow students.
The second benefit is that online English learning gives you a chance to use multiple resources at the same time. The classes are conducted using computing devices such as computers, mobile phones, or tablets. You can take advantage of this in many ways. One of the ways to take advantage of using your computing device is that you can use a search engine to find the meaning of a word used by the teacher without your understanding. When the class is still going on, you can use other tabs to find the synonyms, grammar rules, definitions, or images that will help you remember the word better. When you use the several resources available, you are at a better chance of remembering what you study.
The third benefit is that you will gain proficiency in the four skills of writing, listening, speaking, and reading. Writing skills can be gained when you do the homework assignments that the teacher gives you and participating in writing projects together with your classmates. You can use tools such as Write and Improve, which is given freely by Cambridge to give you feedback on your writing. Listening skills can be gained by watching online videos and listening to podcasts. In addition, you gain this skill whenever you listen to your instructor. Speaking skills are gained when you use video conferencing to respond to the class. Whenever you speak in English, you are learning. Lastly, reading skills are gained when you go through the articles and e-books available to you. You can even subscribe to newsletters that will give you weekly reads.
Lastly, online English learning gives you the opportunity to meet and interact with new online communities of peoples. Social distancing can separate you from the people around you but having online classes will give you some people to interact with. This is not only beneficial to your learning but also your social life. You can make great friends from all over the world who will add happiness to your life.