But what better introduction is there to writing than to be judged solely upon one's critical writing? Although one does not interact personally with other student writers in the online class format, one does not have the ability to interact with the writers of the texts one reads, either. One judge a classical essayist based on his or her quality of prose, and in an Internet forum one can judge a fellow student opinion based on the same standard, the quality and fluidness of the prose and the soundness of the student's opinion. Also, without the pressures of personal interaction, one is likely to be more honest about one's opinions and to take more risks about expressing one's own, potentially risky thoughts about a controversial subject.
True, Internet classes don't offer the one-on-one human interaction that can make a class exiting for someone with a personality who enjoys social interaction. They completely lack the kinesthetic reinforcement of the classroom, of learning by doing...
However, in the future, the Internet may be where writing and English prose is 'going' as a language. Increasingly, the online medium transmits news and opinion at a far faster rate than books and magazines. Even in the business world, memos and interoffice communication takes place by email and online prose. One must know how to use the online medium effectively, and to communicate effectively, to be an employee of the future. Thus, I feel confident of my decision to embark upon this class via the Internet and the World Wide Web, in a kind of experimental educational experience. It may be difficult to get used to the lack of aural reinforcement, and it may require extra discipline, as simply showing up is not enough, one must always interact with one's teachers and peers to be present and 'in class,' in the form of writing. But ultimately, this should not prove an obstacle, but an additional benefit.
