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About »May 7, 2013
Pros
Online courses can save commuting time and expense, and allow students to spend more time with their families, and online courses allow students to learn at their own pace. Also students who wouldn’t usually participate in a regular classroom setting may be quite vocal in an online chat or discussion group.
But online courses are not without drawbacks. Students who have taken online courses often miss the personal interaction with classmates and the immediate feedback from instructors that come with traditional courses.
And students shouldn’t enroll in an online class thinking it’s going to be easy. An online course may require more time than a traditional class.
There is also much more individual responsibility placed on students who take courses online. But students who are self-motivated and have a good understanding of computers should do just fine. Because much of the course content is text-based, online courses may not the best option for students who don’t like to read.
Students who are considering an online class should also consider another course format, called “hybrid” which combines traditional on-campus classes with extensive use of online resources. That way, students can gain experience with online learning but have the security of the traditional classroom.
Usually hybrid classes will meet one day a week and the majority of the coursework will be online. The format works well for students who enjoy independent but guided study.
A hybrid course with extensive use of Web resources can promote a successful, active learning experience. Give a hybrid class a try and see if it works for you. You will be better positioned to evaluate if you would be a successful online learner.
Take the quiz below to find out whether you're ready to jump into online coursework.
1. Feeling that I am part of a physical classroom setting is:
2. I generally:
3. I prefer to communicate:
4. I would classify myself as:
5. I think face-to-face classroom discussion:
6. I generally prefer to:
7. When faced with new technology such as gadgets and computer software I usually:
8. Taking into account my professional and personal schedule, I have:
9. If I have to go to campus to take exams or complete work I:
*Adapted from CareerFocus Magazine