IELTS writing task 2 – Outweigh essay.

Examine the pros and cons of online education. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

Sample answer by Lifestyle Training Centre:

Online education, also known as E-learning, is widely regarded as a frontier in modern education, offering a plethora of advantages alongside some drawbacks. I am firmly of the belief that the benefits of online education far outweigh its drawbacks.

On the positive side, E-learning transcends geographical boundaries, enabling individuals to participate in classes via the internet regardless of their whereabouts. Consequently, it not only saves time but also reduces travel expenses. Moreover, E-learning provides access to a diverse array of prestigious institutions worldwide, offering tailored education or training programs. This fosters global interaction among learners, facilitating the exchange of ideas and perspectives beyond conventional classroom settings.

Conversely, E-learning is susceptible to disruptions caused by internet instability, particularly in remote or rural areas lacking adequate connectivity infrastructure. This hampers the learning experience for some individuals. Additionally, the absence of face-to-face interaction in E-learning environments may lead to feelings of isolation and hinder collaborative teamwork among students and with instructors. However, with governments increasingly investing in internet infrastructure, especially in underserved regions, and technological advancements facilitating virtual connectivity through features like video calls, these challenges are gradually being mitigated.

In conclusion, despite challenges such as connectivity issues and the lack of physical interaction, the benefits of E-learning, including global accessibility to education and fostering international collaboration, far outweigh the drawbacks. It is imperative for governments worldwide to prioritise the expansion of E-learning opportunities to ensure equitable access to education for all individuals.

List of vocabulary used:

1. Frontier: The forefront or leading edge of a field or activity, often implying innovation and exploration.
2. Plethora: An abundance or excess of something, often used to describe a large quantity or variety.
3. Whereabouts: The location or position of something or someone.
4. Consequently: As a result or consequence of something.
5. Global interaction: Communication and engagement among people from different parts of the world.
6. Conventional: Following traditional or widely accepted practices or norms.
7. Susceptible: Vulnerable or prone to being affected by something.
8. Instability: Lack of stability or steady state, often referring to unpredictable changes.
9. Connectivity infrastructure: The physical and technical components that enable devices and networks to connect and communicate with each other.
10. Hampers: Impedes or obstructs the progress or development of something.
11. Isolation: The state of being alone or separated from others.
12. Collaborative teamwork: Working together with others to achieve a common goal or objective.
13. Underserved regions: Areas that lack adequate resources or services, often due to neglect or marginalisation.
14. Equitable access: Fair and impartial availability or distribution of resources or opportunities.
15. Imperative: Urgent or necessary; something that must be done.
16. Prioritise: To give greater importance or precedence to something over other matters.