Breaking Barriers Through Online Learning

About three years ago, I was feeling a bit purposeless and wanted to embark on a new endeavor. I was looking to improve my family’s financial well-being, feel more creative, and take a new risk. I have been working in the nonprofit sector for over ten years, and while this work is rewarding at times, it can also be frustrating. It often feels like you’re perpetuating the same injustices you’re fighting against, due to the charity models most of these organizations follow.

As I did a lot of research online to figure out my next path, I encountered a wealth of information on entrepreneurship and financial freedom. Many content creators pointed me toward courses or “master classes” that promised to give me exactly what I was looking for. Ultimately, I fell for one of them. The business strategy seemed simple and straightforward, to the point where it seemed impossible for it to fail.

"I learned nothing other than to avoid trusting these self-proclaimed 'gurus.' It was an unpleasant experience that made me reflect deeply on this new era of non-traditional online education."

So, I purchased the master course. To my surprise, the course was terrible. It was low-quality, the information seemed like it was written by a high schooler, and every tool they recommended came with a price tag. To say the least, I learned nothing other than to avoid trusting these self-proclaimed “gurus.” It was an unpleasant experience that made me reflect deeply on this new era of non-traditional online education. While such platforms provide accessibility and benefits—like offering a great avenue for social movements—they also have the potential to scam people and are in desperate need of stronger regulation.

When I think about online learning, I think about the possibilities it offers for reach. I think about the millions of young girls living in countries where they have no rights, including the right to an education, and how online learning could help bridge those barriers. I also reflect on my own journey: as a mother and full-time employee with many dreams, I never imagined being able to attend Teachers College of Columbia. But thanks to online learning opportunities, that dream became a reality—an incredible opportunity that, in other circumstances, wouldn't have been possible for me.

Finally, I think about the loss of connection. How can we, as educators, foster trust and build relationships that shape who we are and who we become as individuals and members of our communities through a virtual setting? Professionally, I’m tasked with facilitating online learning, webinars, workshops, and more. As much as we try to engage participants, it often feels like flipping a coin to determine the type of engagement and participation we’ll receive. Many uncontrollable factors—such as a person’s mood, the space they’re connecting from, their internet connection, and their willingness to have their cameras on—play a huge role in shaping the experience.

I strongly believe that the benefits of online learning outweigh some of the perceived consequences, even when we consider using artificial intelligence. This new digital era is here to stay, and it is our duty to use it, embrace it, and make it work for us so that we can become better as a society, not the opposite. This requires strict regulations for its usage, filtering credentials, providing accurate information, being utilized ethically and responsibly, and strict consequences when not followed.

"Online learning holds the power to break down barriers, particularly for those who have historically been disproportionately affected by being denied access to education due to social, economic, or geographical injustices."

Reflecting on my journey, I would not be where I am today without the opportunities online learning has given me. Both as a learner and educator, it has opened doors that would have otherwise remained closed, allowing me to pursue dreams that seemed out of reach. I also recognize that we have many ways to go, both in the technology and how we regulate and use it. Beyond my own personal experience, online learning holds the power to break down barriers, particularly for those who have historically been disproportionally affected by being denied access to education due to social, economic, or geographical injustices. If we want to improve as a society, we must ensure these opportunities are open for all. Let’s ensure we continue to build a system that serves the greater good, ensuring everyone has the chance to learn, grow, and thrive.