Argument Supporting Critics of Online Learning

In an increasingly digital age, many advocates argue that traditional classroom settings have become obsolete. They claim that online education provides greater flexibility, access to resources, and the ability to tailor learning experiences to individual needs. However, critics of online learning maintain that it lacks the critical interaction found in physical classrooms, which can enhance collaborative skills and mentor-student relationships. In this context, a recent study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology analyzed the effectiveness of both online and in-person learning environments, concluding that while online courses can be more accessible, students in face-to-face environments performed better in assessments requiring collaborative problem-solving.

Based on the arguments presented in this study, which of the following claims supports the critics of online learning?