The Case for Online Education

Online education, also referred to as distance learning involves taking courses over the internet as opposed to in the classroom setting. Online education has become more popular in recent years. This popularity is largely due to the flexibility and convenience that an online educational experience provides. Online education provides an opportunity to take classes from the convenience of home. In addition, online education provides more flexibility by allowing students to work at their own pace without the confines of a strict class schedule.

Online classes tend to be more beneficial for students who work full-time and have additional family responsibilities. Online course assignments can be completed at work (don’t tell my boss), home, or anywhere you can carry your laptop. This form of learning makes it ideal for students on the go.

In addition to flexibility and convenience, online courses can also be more cost effective. Classes are taken online so there is no need to drive to class. This saves gas as well as additional wear and tear on your vehicle. Each school is different so you may be required to take certain tests in person at “proctor” sites. These sites are approved by the university and work directly with the school to ensure that students are taking tests as instructed (i.e., no books, notes, etc). Online schools are also ideal for students in the military or in jobs that requires frequent travel. Courses can be taken from anywhere in the world.

b) Find English equivalents in the text:

Личное присутствие, обеспечивать, предлагать смешанные программы, братство, частые командировки, амортизация, возможность, дистанционное обучение, жесткое расписание

c) Answer the questions:

1. What are the trends in education?
2. Why are traditional classes useful for learners?
3. What is the main feature of online classes?
4. What areas of study are the most appropriate for the classroom setting? Do you agree with this list? Can you add more?
5. Could you study at online school? Why?

d) Learn the advantages and disadvantages of different form of education. Do you agree? Add you own pros and cons.

Advantages of Online Education

1. More flexibility for students who work full-time

2. The ability to complete assignments at times when it is most convenient

3. The ability to obtain a degree from a school in another state without moving

4. This form of education is ideal for military students

5. Less Travel

Disadvantages of Online Education

1. Less direct contact with students and professors

2. Limited opportunities for student and campus activities

3. Subject to “technical difficulties” and software crashes

Advantages of Traditional Education

1. Direct contact with teachers, students, and advisors

2. More access to campus activities

3. More suitable for hands on training

Disadvantages of Traditional Education

1. Less flexibility in class scheduling

2. Less cost effective

3. More travel to and from class

e) There are some opinions about different forms of education. Study them. Which one is closer to you? Why?

epbooks I am almost finished with an online program myself and it can definitely be rewarding but certainly requires a great deal of self-discipline as mentioned. It is not for everyone but you can get hands-on experience depending on the program your school has. Although you do not have the face-to-face interaction, you still do have a lot of involvement with your professors and other students through discussion forums, online class projects, and weekly assignments depending on how each class is set up. I highly recommend them for people who are motivated enough to complete the program but are unable to attend traditional classes.

toptenreview I think that traditional education is better. I'm always so skeptical of doing classes online. I think that I won't learn what I need to and then I'll have problems on test or even in the future.

sminut13 I have found that online education takes a great deal of self-discipline to complete the classes. The open-ended classes where you have to complete the work... whenever are truly difficult. Stick with the ones with deadlines and more structure and things will be a lot easier.

epbooks Since I wanted to get my Bachelors when I was in my late thirties, I was too busy to attend school at a campus, so I chose University of Phoenix online. I loved it. I think there's a common misconception that online school is easier, however, in a way, it's just as hard, if not more difficult because there is a ton of writing involved versus in classroom participation, which I was never fond of!

cozytown I agree with the earlier post in that doing online courses definitely need lots of self-discipline. I tried to do an online free course, just to improve something of myself and I'm just too lazy. Hehe. But it's also partly due to the poor internet connection at my place. Hopefully, after my holiday, I can continue it where I stay and complete it.

I prefer the online education as well, it is more convenient and time saving, especially for busy people. The lack of contacts can be a bad thing, but we should adapt.

mdgardner I agree online courses are much harder than people think. I would much rather be in class instead of writing out everything to get credit for participation.

ignugent17 I think I will always like traditional education. We can do things online but I still need to be with people to discuss things face to face.: -)