Online learning verses class onground learning
Online learning is very nessary for those who find it difficult to attend classes onground, for more reason than one, example if a mother just have a baby and wishes to continue her education staying home with her young child, she can always take classes on line, rather than taking classes onground, wher her mind could be wondering about child.
Onground classes on the other hand is necessary for those who want to attend classes onground,
where te students is allowed the oppertunity to counteract with both thier classmates,instructor and the environment.
Renee,
These are all valid points. For many returning students the online environment is intmidating in multiple ways. Sometimes using a 'study buddy' program in class can help alleviate this to some extent. Good points.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I agree with the points being made regarding online learning. There is a group of individuals returning to school that enjoy the f2f classroom setting. It may be due to lack of technology skills or enjoying the company of others in the class. Some may want to seek online classes and are intimidated by those that are technology savvy.
Lauren ,
This dynamic for online is not uncommon. This is one place where the lack of nonverbal cues may actually enhance communication by removing inhibitions of student participation because of perceived on approving "looks" from their peers within the classroom. Very good point.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I totally agree Charles! In comparison to a traditional classroom, I do find that my online students are more outspoken. The students in the f2f setting might feel like they have to wait until we are one on one before they can express that they have questions and concerns. My online students will almost let me know immediately when they have any questions or concerns.
Charles,
I have had many students express their affinity for this type of empowerment in the online classroom over the f2f classroom. This is one aspect of online that some students find especially helpful. Thank you for your contribution.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
The major advantage to online learning as I see it is the ability of each student to have a voice. I mean that every student has a greater opportunity to express his/her ideas with less fear or apprehension. This also eliminates the domination of the discussion by one student.
Joan,
Life circumstances and innate tendancies of the student are, no doubt, contributors to the student's preference toward either online or f2f. It is good to have the availability of both, which expands the audience for higher education. Do you see any specific pedagogical advantages of either? Thank you for your contribution.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
