In the modern world, online classes are becoming more popular. Nowadays, students can earn their complete degrees without entering a university campus. This has been made possible through online learning. While there are advantages and reasons as to why online learning has picked up and is gaining popularity, traditional learning and online learning serve different groups. For instance, younger students tend to choose the traditional learning route, while older students, with families, usually benefit from online learning. Online learning is convenient for them because of their tight schedules and pressures from employment and family. As such, traditional learning and online learning environments are different in terms of flexibility, money, and interaction.
First of all, online classes are beneficial for older students with families because students can decide when and how to complete assignments. Such students enroll for the classes and courses they know are taught when they are available to study or to attend them. Parents can schedule their time to balance family time and education. This flexibility does not exist in traditional learning. Hence, more people in that age bracket have shifted to online learning for its convenience.
Second of all, taking online classes is a good method for learners to save money. The price of an online class is lower than the price of traditional classes. This is because of the fact that the student only pays for the services received online; that is, the instructor led study sessions. This means that an online student does not have to pay for parking permits, gas, and books like a traditional student has to pay. Online students do not pay for campus accommodation and therefore the cost of studying goes lower for them.
Lastly, the level of interaction between students and teachers is different in the online learning versus the traditional learning environments. In a face-to-face class, students are able to ask queries and acquire more information from their classmates. Online classes have a special way for students to ask and answer questions, but the face-to-face experience is usually more beneficial for learning. Nonetheless, some students may prefer online learning because the instructor only assists one learner at a time. This means that the instructor’s full attention is on the students; to meet the student’s satisfaction. More time with the instructor means that a lot is learned. When it comes to interactions between students and their classmates, it does not exist in online learning. Only traditional learning involves students being in a classroom to interact and learn from one another if the instructor is not available; they can discuss amongst themselves and learn better.
In conclusion, online learning and traditional learning cater to different demographics. While online learning is more popular among older students, traditional learning seems to be most liked by younger students. Both options are a great ways to obtain a degree; one just has to figure out what their needs are. The choice depends on availability of time, the environment, and the budget a person has. With globalization, however, online learning will only get better.
References
Anderson, T. (2008). The theory and practice of online learning. Edmonton: AU Press.
Carliner, S. (2004). An overview of online learning. Amherst, Mass.: HRD Press.
Carron, J. (2006, December 15). Online Learning vs. The Traditional College. Retrieved October 10, 2013, from NYU: http://www.nyu.edu/classes/keefer/waoe/cjack.htm
Kearsley, G. (2005). Online learning : personal reflections on the transformation of education. Englewood Cliffs, N.J.: Educational Technology Publications.
NCU. (2013). Online Education Versus Traditional Education. Retrieved October 11, 2013, from Northcentral University: http://www.ncu.edu/why-northcentral/online-learning/learn-more
