The Fun in Online Schools

According to statistics, there are over 4 million students who are enrolled in online schools and universities, and the number is just increasing every year. What's the draw with online education? Why is it that many people opt for this method of learning? What are the benefits?

Students are able to "attend" a class anytime, anywhere. This means that parents can look after their children, and then attend a class. Working students can also attend classes without having to worry about their work schedule. People who have to travel a lot because of work can also choose to attend class from anywhere in the world, as long as there's internet access.

Different individuals have different way of learning that best fits them. While others learn by practical application, some, on the other hand, learn visually.

Next benefit if online learning is the easy accessibility of course materials. In a regular classroom set-up, students normally forget lect ures during class hours because of various distractions and stress. This can be avoided in online education because students can read and review discussions and lessons at their own spare time.
In an online school, attendance is only apparent when a student participates in classroom discussions. This improves student participations and interaction because everyone is able to voice their opinion, not just a select few.

Instructors in online schools may come from any part of the world, regardless of race or culture. This provides a chance for the learners to understand even real life lessons that cannot be found and taught in books.

A side benefit is due to the nature of the schooling itself. Since the student is required to make constant use of the Internet, they inevitably will end up honing their skills in using Internet-based technologies and topics. This allows them not only to be more effective in the classroom, but also at researching information online and in using modern communication systems. This can become essential not only in surviving the environment, but also in forming networks with the other students.

In man y cases, it might be easier to participate in a discussion online than in a classroom. While the online classroom is far less anonymous than the rest of the Internet, it still retains a good deal of that. This can help remove bias caused by things such as popularity, seating arrangement and social factors. Students also have more time to consider their answers, allowing them to better formulate their words. This removes the need for very fast thinking that encourage rote memorization of facts over actual understanding of the material.

Finally, online schools tend to have professors and instructors that are much more approachable. Students are more open with sharing their opinions through online communication media and discussions. Professors are also easier to get in touch with. This allows for more opportunities for students and teachers to interact and exchange ideas.

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