Why not Study on the Internet?
Unquestionably, receiving an education in Sudan can be challenging. Whether hampered by poor financial conditions, bad geography, or the lack of services, children and university level adults may have a difficult time attending classes. Due to numerous impediments, many Sudanese do not obtain educations, therefore, it would seem that benefiting from an online education would be the perfect solution for many. But the truth is, there are various reasons why it is not advantageous to study on the internet.
First, while great progress has been made to bring internet access to the residents of Sudan, statistics still show that few people have online access. In a country where finding food and clean water are high priorities, the internet is not exactly considered a necessity to one's daily existence. And the cost of internet is certainly above many families' means. Further, the schools that typically offer courses of study on the internet tend to be private rather than public schools. As a developing nation, the infrastructure is just not there to withstand the full-blown access to online education as experienced in industrialized countries.
Additionally, virtual education may only be provided in the way of support and not classes. In other words, students may be required to attend physical classes and be officially enrolled in a program before using the system. An example of this is The Sudanese Electronic School whose mandate is not to replace traditional schools, but rather, support and assist them with notes, digital presentations, and sample exams. Although this is a great step forward for education in Sudan, it is a major reason why one might not study on the internet. The online material is not all-encompassing leading to a degree or diploma, so the method may not suit everyone's needs.
Another reason to forgo an online education, preferring to study at a qualified institute, is the fact that the whole system seems unstable. With a lack of resources in terms of hardware, software, equipment, and people to oversee the projects, there is a real issue with the longterm existence of the programs. Some might ask how long the internet courses will last. And if they are not there next year, what happens to the time already spent? Will students receive credit for their work? Likewise, the government lacks the commitment to assist with the problems that plague the installation and ready-access to the internet.
Also, literacy rates will affect who might study on the internet. Typically the wealthier and more educated people have first access to the internet. This fact excludes millions of people, as they try to make a new life for themselves and their families. Where other countries view the internet as a necessity, in Sudan, it is mostly a luxury. Even among the educated, few understand the real scope and benefits of using the internet. Surveys of doctors have shown that most use the internet solely for sending emails. And they admit that they have little knowledge of the kinds of things that could help them by using the internet. Thus, if the educated are not aware of the benefits of online information, how can others be expected to adopt methods of study on the internet?
Finally, studying on the internet in Sudan does not provide students with the intellectual exchange evident on university campuses. Truly, students should be immersed in philosophical debate with professors and other students. Being on campus allows students to participate in extra-curricular activities, and keeps them in tune with what is going on around them in their country. It gives them another perspective on the broader picture.
Despite the country's advancements, and despite the fact that an internet education sounds great, there are still major blockages for most students pondering why not study on the internet.