I am taking an online MBA course with my local university and there are many benefits to an online format. First, the lectures are recorded and can be rewound for future reference. This is invaluable in the tougher papers. Second, we utilise the chat function in Zoom which allows the whole class to participate in a "full duplex" fashion without one person monopolising the airwaves with a single conversation (I should mention that this technique is only used occasionally when broad input is required).
If the lecturer is facilitating properly (ensuring students are engaged and paying attention, calling upon quieter members), then the class can be as successful as an in-person one.
The only negatives I've seen are: easier to be distracted (no one can really tell you're checking Reddit), the online setting with it's mute/unmute approach sets a higher barrier to entry for participating in discussion.
If the lecturer is facilitating properly (ensuring students are engaged and paying attention, calling upon quieter members), then the class can be as successful as an in-person one.
The only negatives I've seen are: easier to be distracted (no one can really tell you're checking Reddit), the online setting with it's mute/unmute approach sets a higher barrier to entry for participating in discussion.