Challenges of Online Education
Enrollment in online education is a record, according to a recent study conducted by Sloan Consortium. Based on responses from more than 2,200 colleges and universities in the United States, the study shows that 3.2 million students have at least one online course in the fall of 2005, an increase of 850,000 over the years before.
With the growing popularity of e-learning has unique challenges not received the traditional instruction. Students must be aware of the difference between online and traditional classes and ready to make the necessary changes. The main challenges for online students face the following:
* The technical problems. Computer hardware and peripherals such as printers are not modems and routers can not be destroyed, like any other device by a man, they can fail or malfunction at the most inopportune moment. In addition to incompatible hardware failure, an old computer with software may be required for the course. infectious viruses, trojans, spyware and other malware, a computer, so it can be executed or not too bad. A slow Internet connection may cause connection problems in the classroom and to take orders and submissions for posting on the forums. Each of these problems can try a huge disappointment for the students to complete the tasks due course. It is therefore important for students to have access to a backup computer to use in case of equipment failure.
* Stay motivated. Going to school always requires some degree of motivation, regardless of a student, it is a “brick and mortar” institution or online class. In a traditional classroom has a student life, the interaction face-to-face with teachers and classmates – a friendship that would, enthusiasm and motivation for the course can be. A course on the Internet, but no direct contact with teachers and classmates – the student works alone in a virtual environment. The lack of direct contact can lead to feelings of isolation, and it is difficult for a student without a strong internal personal commitment or a drive to stay motivated during course.
* Self-discipline. As motivation, a student needs a good self-discipline to succeed online. The freedom and flexibility of e-learning is what is so attractive to many people. No obligation to register the class at a particular time or place – you can go to class and do your job when it is convenient for you. However, this same freedom of lead because of delays and unruly or unsafe student to fall back on his missions. At the rear, it can be difficult to recover.
* It is difficult to improve oral communication skills. Many classes, such as speech, drama, debate, training of teachers and others requiring oral presentations to students at a group of people who do. Online course is not practical, such as virtual classrooms, and students are not all at once put in a room. A student who wants to improve oral communication skills will be required to take courses in a traditional classroom course.
* Classes with lab or hands on the requirements are not available online. If an investment can not be simulated or real online offer, the needs of students taking the course at a college campus or other location of facilities required for the completion of coursework.
Students contemplating online courses should be aware of these challenges and others and willing to meet to be successful online. If any challenge seems insurmountable, the student should consider the online option and perhaps take a fairly traditional course on earth.