8 Aug
Online Universities vs. Traditional Universities
The main distinctions between online universities and traditional universities involve where and how instruction is delivered.
Online universities give students the chance to take their courses from anywhere, as long as they have access to the Internet. The traditional university uses only one location. Professors at online universities use many multimedia resources to teach their students. Online professors use software designed for online learning to give links to study materials, supplement learning using streaming audio/video, host Web conferences with multiple students or communicate via e-mail and chat.
At a traditional university, students go to a class on campus in a classroom with a professor physically present. The professors may use multimedia resources like PowerPoint and supply online materials using programs like Blackboard, the focus is on what goes inside classroom. Students may even get penalties for not coming to class, and schedules are more rigid than online universities.
Traditional classes suit working adults with full-time jobs. There may be night classes for students who work during the daytime, but these options are usually limited. Some students may have to attend school part time if only taking night classes, and this limits their access to get financial aid or some grants. Online universities make it a point to give options for those who need to work full-time and attend school full-time.
Increased flexibility for students is another difference. The classes offered by online universities require that students log in a specific number of times each week, but often they do not have to be at a specific time. Online professors can allow students submit work or take tests over the weekend. With traditional universities, missing a set test day or other due day means a lower grade.
With online courses, physical meetings with professors or other students may not happen. However, in-person social interaction is important in a traditional college experience. Students at online universities learn at home. There is usually no one to consult with. Students at online universities have to work independently, although they may communicate tough questions to professors or fellow students by e-mail or chat.
Respond to this post