Many students stay silent about poor online teaching, even when it affects their learning, and research is revealing why.

Image caption: We may shout at the screen in frustration, yet still hesitate to give feedback that could improve the course.

Quick Summary

1. Fear of reprisal stops many students from raising concerns.
2. Low expectations make complaints feel pointless.
3. Lack of awareness means some do not realize quality is poor.
4. Coping strategies replace formal feedback.
5. Weak feedback systems discourage students from speaking up.

Why Students Hold Back

Not Knowing What “Good” Looks Like

If you are new to online learning, it can be hard to tell whether what you are experiencing is effective or not. Without a clear point of comparison, you might not realize that better methods exist.

Adapting Instead of Complaining

Many students focus on getting through the course rather than challenging it. You might find ways to work around poor-quality teaching, but this also means the problem is never addressed.

Expecting Too Little

If you have only experienced poor online teaching, it is easy to assume that is just how it works. This can stop you from asking for better.

Too Busy to Speak Up

Heavy workloads and life commitments can leave little time or energy to submit feedback, even when it matters.

No Easy Way to Give Feedback

If you are not sure how to raise concerns, or if past attempts seemed to go nowhere, it is easy to stay silent.

How You Can Make It Better

1. Recognize what good online teaching looks like. Compare your experience with known examples of high-quality courses or ask peers what works for them.
2. Keep simple notes. If something is unclear, missing, or not working, jot it down. This makes it easier to give clear feedback later.
3. Use available channels. Even if it feels awkward, try submitting feedback through the course platform, surveys, or direct messages.
4. Frame feedback constructively. Point out what worked well alongside what could be improved — this increases the chance of it being taken seriously.
5. Speak early. Do not wait until the end of the course. Raising concerns sooner gives the instructor a chance to make changes that could help you right away.

Key Takeaways

• Many students hold back from giving feedback on poor online teaching.
• The main reasons are fear, low expectations, lack of awareness, and unclear channels.

By staying aware, keeping notes, and giving constructive feedback early, you can improve your own learning experience and help others.

Written by Dave Mac Cathain, The Creative Guide

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