Online Learning

Online Learning

Executive Summary

This paper aims to develop an understanding of what is meant by an online learner, and to try and dispel some myths regarding online learning in the minds of the students and parents alike. People with not a lot of knowledge about online learning tend to be hesitant and uncertain about what it holds, with Mrs. Carew being a prime example. The apprehensions mainly stem from the concerns about online education quality, and whether it could be effective in the development of writing and reading skills required by the students. In addition, apprehensions regarding online education may also include the concern whether it would adversely affect the development of a student's relationships with co-students and instructors which are seen to be very important. Some may also view online education as being difficult to learn technologies or some may be of the opinion that online education is insufficient to inculcate discipline in the students, which is very important in a student's development. Conversely, there are those who think online education is simple and thus underestimate it, and get into trouble by not devoting sufficient time to their studies and coursework.

Introduction

Mrs. Carew's concern shows that her child, Sally, may not be developing skills in reading and writing due to excessive online learning. In addition, she thinks that online learning is just a “settling” for below par education.

Enrolment in online programs is driven not by choice, but by necessity. A student may not be able to get to the campus as a result of living in a rural, far-flung region where access to a campus could be very difficult or due to a medical condition or disease, a student may require medical treatment on a regular basis which could inhibit the said person from traveling to the campus at predetermined timings every week. People with time management issues, such as those in military service or single mothers, could look at online education as their only realistic hope of getting a degree. However, students who prefer to get education from a physical campus may tend to get disappointed at settling for online education (Wenglinsky, 2005).

Nonetheless, consensus is growing amongst students that the quality of education on offer in online learning programs can match, or at times, outdo that on offer in brick and mortar, physical campuses, based on increasing student satisfaction levels. The syllabus and coursework on offer in online learning campuses usually matches that on offer in physical learning campuses, but online learning stands out from conventional learning in the wide range of delivery styles and greater student to student interaction opportunities.

Discussion

As a result of high quality and the ease with which one may access online learning from anywhere, a lot of students are turning to this medium of education, as opposed to conventional education, thus making online learning a matter of choice.

Evidence based on numerous studies indicate that a growing number of students are more satisfied with online learning than conventional learning, in terms of ...