Most online learning programs are marketed as practically similar to, or even better than, classroom programs. Online education is believed to be more convenient, as learners do not have to devote time and effort to go to actual classrooms. Their flexibility also allows learners to learn at their own pace. These benefits are even more relevant today when traditional classroom instructions have been criticized by people such as esteemed writer Alvin Toffler for being ‘authoritarian’ and having a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach.Of course, online learning also has its fair share of skeptics and the reality is that a lot of people are still reluctant to throw classroom lessons under the bus. Most of the cynicism comes from the supposed lack of connection between teachers and learners in an online environment. An article from The New York Times highlighted the lack of “immediacy of contact” and real dialogue in online classes. Consultant and writer Beth Britton also explains that e-learning is not suited for some aspects of education, specifically the theoretical aspects. She cited that fields such as dementia care need a more personalized approach.But if there is one thing that could gain online learning leverage over traditional education, perhaps it's the accessibility or openness. As US education becomes less and less affordable, especially at the higher levels, more students are forced to work while studying. Online education allows learners to balance their work and their studies. This is not even factoring in that online courses are generally cheaper than traditional studies, as shown in a report by US News.Online education is also accepted with more enthusiasm because most online learners do it for professional growth or life-enriching purposes. Maryville University cited a US national survey which indicates that postgraduate students who take online coursework feel that they are succeeding in their careers, as well as life in general. As online learners are able to motivate themselves, many don’t usually feel forced to rush through the program.This is why an emerging model called blended learning is getting a lot of attention as well. Blended learning, as we have previously discussed here on Educational Innovation 360, is a formal learning program that is part online learning and part traditional. Today, there are various modalities of blended learning that are being explored to accommodate different learning goals. Aiming to get the best of both worlds, the rise of blended learning indicates that the benefits of online learning can be maximized with traditional learning elements.As we refine our teaching and learning methods, we also uncover that there is more to online learning than just convenience. Once we arrive at the optimal teaching approaches that fit our expectations, the question of which is better, becomes irrelevant.Featured article for Educationalinnovation360.comWritten by Camille Collins