Online Education Outline Online and Traditional Education

Online Education Outline

Online and traditional education may share numerous academic techniques, but online education better assists students by proposing format according to their skills, interests and requirements.

Online and traditional education can offer student-centered, teacher-facilitated learning opportunities.

Students can work independently or in groups on projects and assignments.

The teacher provides guidance and answers questions.

Online and traditional education offer many of the same degree options.

Students can choose a program that best fit their needs, taking into consideration geography, schedule, costs, and personal learning style.

The online option is an alternative for students who cannot pursue a degree in the traditional way because of work and/or family conflicts, or because a particular course of study is not located within reasonable proximity.

The stigma of an online degree is disappearing as more of the traditional colleges and universities add online learning as an option.

B. Assignments and projects can be the same whether the class is taught online or in a traditional classroom.

1. With today's technology, instructors can lecture in a live hall or via the computer.

2. Discussion boards keep students connected with the instructor and with one another.

III. Online courses offer a richer educational experience.

A. Because students can log in anytime, from anywhere, they are not bound by work or family schedules, nor do they have to deal with traffic, parking or severe weather in order to get to class.

1. Time saved preparing for and traveling to the physical classroom can be used for coursework.

2. The ability to log in at any time enables students to "check in" frequently, so they are thinking about their coursework more often, not just on days when class meets.

B. Students often feel freer to participate in discussions when they can post to discussion boards rather than speak in front of their peers. Even shy students can fully take part in discussions and debates. Many students find it easier to ask questions in a virtual classroom.

1. The virtual classroom affords more equality for students, making it possible for both strong personalities and those who are more reticent to be equally successful.

2. Biases, even unintentional, are reduced or eliminated, as instructors and students in the virtual classroom cannot judge one another based on age, ethnicity, or manner of dress.

3. Side conversations and discussions are rare in online settings, so students can stay focused on the relevant material and avoid distractions.