The Prejudices About Online Studying
For instance, you need to pay thousands of dollars every term to attend a prestigious school. And with all those busy classrooms, budget cuts, and course shortages, learners don’t always get an opportunity to study what they really want.
That’s precisely why there are millions of students across the globe that now opt to pursue online degree programs. Others are taking at least one college course via an online platform. However, despite being popular, there are some prejudices about online studying. This article uncovers some of these myths.
1. Online Learning Is Not Suitable For Some Courses
A common myth has always been that online learning is not suitable for subjects like laboratory science and theater. That’s because some courses require the physical presence of a professor. Additionally, professors in some fields would feel lost when teaching online because there are no established platforms or systems to facilitate learning while others are not used to it.
However, online learning works fine for nut-and-bolts information as well as analysis that are required in history surveys and editing that is necessary for basic writing courses. There are also online learning platforms that are offering both lectures and laboratories online. For instance, it’s possible to have a laboratory accomplished through the use of powerful simulation software for works that are done in a microbiology laboratory. This software or laboratory known as VirtualUnknown Microbiology enables learners to perform biochemical tests while identifying bacteria. It provides a review of the procedures that are used in isolating and identifying microorganisms. These procedures include molecular biology, biochemical tests, and serological techniques.
2. Students Are Unable To Reason Properly About Internet Information
Some people argue that some students cannot reason properly when it comes to judging the authenticity of the information that they find online. According to a report that was released by Stanford researchers in November 2016, some students have difficulties in judging a credibility of the information that they find online. For instance, there are students that have difficulties in differentiating news articles from advertisements or even identifying sources of internet information.
However, online learning is not about letting students do everything on their own. Just because you do not sit physically in front of an instructor, it does not mean he/she won’t be available to guide you. There are tutors or instructors that engage with students while guiding them on the subject matter. These explain course materials while answering questions that students may have about their courses. That means if students have difficulties in judging the credibility of the information that they come across online they can always inquire about it from their instructors online. Ideally, online learning is just like a traditional learning because it's largely about personal responsibility.
3. It’s Impossible To Earn A Full-Fledged Law Degree Online
Some people think that you cannot earn a full-fledged law degree online. That’s because unlike other online degree programs, a law degree program that is offered online must include a large exam. This exam determines the grade that the learner graduates with just like a traditional law degree program. Every student in most states must pass a bar exam to become a licensed attorney except in California. Currently, there are no online law degree programs that have the accreditation of the American Bar Association. That means online law schools’ graduates may not sit for a bar exam in their states except in California.
Nevertheless, there are few opportunities where some schools provide programs where traditional law education is fused with technology. Such schools include Mitchell Hamline School of Law, in St. Paul, Washington University School of Law, in St Louis and Syracuse University College of Law, in New York. The Harvard Law School is also offering an online copyright law class to on-campus students as well as students that enroll for a not-for-credit, free course from any part of the world.
4. Online Studying Alienates The Learner From The Society
Some people are skeptic about online learning because they think online learners spend most of their time learning online. That means an online learner will be alienated from his/her immediate society.
But that’s not true. Socializing entails more than spending time with other learners in a traditional classroom. Even with traditional learning, students leave their homes to join campuses at distant places. Basically, the world has generally changed due to modern technology. Many people socialize via the internet, particularly social media platforms. And socializing is a skill that is taught and learned when a person is given a chance to interact with other individuals.
5. Online Learning Is Easier Than Traditional Learning
Generally, traditional learning is expensive and rigid. You must pay good money to pursue a good course. You must also attend classes during the scheduled time. That means you have to forget your hobbies, work, and family and make studying your priority. On the other hand, online learning is self-paced and low cost. It gives you a chance to progress at your pace. You don’t have to attend live sessions. You also get access to materials that you need for your course anytime. It gives you the freedom to study any time you want and from any location. This makes some people assume that online learning is easier than traditional learning.
However, just like traditional learning, online learning requires your effort. You must plan your time well so that you can have time to study. Generally, online courses are as challenging as on-campus courses. To graduate with a good online degree, you must study and pass your exams.
In a nutshell, it’s worth trying an online program. However, it’s more of an individual decision because online learning is not for everyone. For instance, if you feel that you are not disciplined or responsible enough to take charge of your learning, an online course may not be suitable for you right now. Nevertheless, if any of these myths has been hindering you from pursuing an online course, this may be the right time for you to enroll for one.
References:
- Classroom of the Future Is Virtually Anywhere
- Science Prerequisites for Health Professions
- Stanford researchers find students have trouble judging the credibility of information online
- The Truth About Homeschooling: Myths Debunked
- Top Five Online Learning Myths
- 7 Myths About Online Education
- The Real Functions of Language
- 5 Myths About Online Learning: The Revealing Truth Behind the Screen
- Law Schools Are Going Online to Reach New Students
- Can I Earn a Law Degree Online?
