Megan Farley
Staff Writer
It seems that the future is happening now with students being able to attend class through their very own laptop screens. This luxury has been an up-and-coming integration into professor’s curriculum.
With technology continuously evolving, it was only a matter of time before full lecture halls turned into online discussion boards. With the lack of physical presence and the sudden re-direction of these classes, just how effective are they?
Associate Professor of Sociology at Dominican Christina Perez states, “They are an important option for students. Research has found that students who include online and hybrid classes are more likely to graduate on-time or early than students who don’t.” This research includes athletes, commuters and even students that have returned to school later in their lives. When other commitments interfere, online courses offer a flexibility that the classroom cannot afford – that is to be able to study and learn when you are able to.
It is important to note that technology is ever-changing and online courses are still a newer installation into college class offerings. While the online courses are still working their way into our curriculum, hiccups are expected with unexplored territory.
In addition, students who have a hard time with time management and responsibility may struggle with these courses due to their extreme accessibility. Online courses are a very independent course of action for credits, so it is important to note that they are not for everyone.
Online courses may be here to stay and evolve. While they prove to be useful for some, others may find them difficult to keep up with. One thing is for sure – as technology continues to advance, online courses are here to stay.
farlmega@my.dom.edu
