| |APRIL 202519INSIDEROn the other hand, online learning has provided access to education to many individuals with disabilities. Having to physically go to a campus and attend face-to-face courses has been a challenge for many learners, especially if there is a lack of accommodation and accessibility services. For years, completing online degrees and programs has broken those barriers and has prevented disability from getting on the way to education. Another barrier that online learning has been able to break is the financial one. Several online programs are more affordable than those offered in a face-to-face format. Besides the reduced cost in tuition, completing an online program also saves money in campus-related fees, transportation, housing, and similar costs. This is especially true for domestic and international students who aspire to join specific academic programs at specific institutions, but their geographical location and the costs of relocation cannot make it possible. Even within the realm of traditional students who can attend a face-to-face program without challenges, there is a niche for online learning. The traditional campus experience, as we know it, might not be the dream educational scenario for everyone. Unfortunately, before the development of online learning, that was the only way to pursue a formal education. With online learning, students can complete courses and program milestones at their own pace with flexible structures and academic calendars. Moreover, online learning has given access to education to those who decided to start their studies later in their lives and who do not think that the traditional campus experience is for them anymore. Online learning should not be seen as a competition for face-to-face instruction or as a delivery method that will replace it. Online learning has been established to serve several populations who did not have access to good education before. It has become the hope of a better future for those with non-traditional schedules, lives, and circumstances. Online learning has changed education from a privilege that few had, to something that everyone can aspire to benefit from. The best thing about online learning is that when well-designed and well-planned it can be as effective and life changing as face-to-face learning. With all of this said, many might wonder if online learning is worth trying it. I certainly think it is! Implementing Artificial Intelligence and online learning can be a game-changer for education, but it requires a deliberate and thoughtful approach. Providing training, ongoing professional, instructional, and technological support, and building a culture that values and embraces these technologies can make all the difference in creating a successful learning environment
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