RHT 101
March 14th 2013
First attempt at an on-line course
In today's world everything is and anything is available online. From newspapers to TV and media to shopping, everything is a mouse click away. For the past several years there has been a boom in online learning and online education. Almost every college is now offering online classes for their students. There are several accredited colleges that were started only to offer online classes. On the road to success, students encountering online education reap many benefits that better prepare them for their future.
This is my first experience with on-line learning, and it has been a great experience so far. The teachers are very helpful and guide the students with text and videos on how to take an online class. Anytime a student requires any assistance they could just email the teacher and so far I've experienced that all my teacher’s reply within one day if not within hours. There are various benefits of having an online class. There is no need to drive to college every day and you can save money on gas and driving expenses. You can do your assignments on your own time and set your own schedule. It is easier for people who work to do this in their time after work or on their days off. Also, transferring credits is a breeze as I could take summer online classes and transfer them to my four year college while working at the same time. Chicago is a city well known for its cold weather. There are many instances in a year where snowstorms have, and can occur. In this semester specifically, it is still winter and therefore snow is inevitable and causes colleges to cancel classes. These classes then have to be made up and can cause the semester to run longer, which is inconvenient for students that work and have other tight schedules. Online scholars don’t have to worry about adverse weather effects. Even if their internet service runs low or crashes, they can still complete their studies at a different location or time.
Another advantage of being an online learner is the variety of classes offered at a lower cost. Being able to choose from different departments helps fulfill the academic credits needed, particularly general education classes. I have also seen my friends gain degrees like a master’s, MBA, or PhD, while not having to give up all their time into attending classes physically. They can make a living and gain an education, as can parents and older people too.
Cost is a major factor while having an education, for all students. Online learners don’t have to pay the full tuition for universities because online classes are cheaper than a traditional school. Computing the gas money and rising textbook prices as well, overall costs increase in a classroom-sitting environment. I am able to use the e-book more effectively since everything is already on the internet with the class. In an eco-friendly mindset, paper is not utilized because students download all necessary material provided by the professors.
Learning online is a different experience, for new and returning students. You have a teacher and classmates and have discussions just like any normal class, yet you get to do everything on your own time online. I have a very busy work schedule, and I have to travel at times as well. Having an online class is letting me finish my degree while I work and make a living. Having an online class is a blessing, I do not have to drive to college every day and in that time I can go to my workplace and when I come back from work or on my days off I can do my homework or study online. There has been times where I have taken my homework to my job and I study there when I’m not busy. The online Blackboard system that Triton College has provided is very helpful and easy to use. It has many tools to help with online education. I can submit assignments, email my teachers and classmates, check my grades and have online discussions with my peers all in this one portal. I am currently only taking one online course and my teacher has helped tremendously. She has replied to my emails in a very prompt manner and provided the students with informative videos and always keeps the students updated with the due dates and the assignments that need their attention.
Having an online class and smaller teacher to student ratios help create an individual focus to the student. Although not meeting in a classroom environment, mentally, the student feels satisfied that the professor could cater to specific assistance when needed. If there is a question, just an email away is an answer. In my experience, the work then is tailored to the student, as is the help. All of this prepares the student for a better future.