15.2 Benefits and Drawbacks of Online Discussion, for Both Students and Instructors
At this point, you have set up a weekly module in your training template. You are nearly done with this training, and it is time for a bit of reflection. The question that remains is, why are we offering online and hybrid courses? Who do they benefit, and why?
Benefits and Drawbacks for Faculty
Like everything else in life, online courses have both benefits and drawbacks for all involved. For faculty the benefits are:
But, there are drawbacks, too:
- Ability to reach a different student population--watch for your introverted students to spring to life on online discussion boards! Watch your mechanical learners interact in ways you never imagined with your enhanced study tools.
- Ability to teach from anywhere instead of being tied to the classroom. This benefit gives instructors the freedom to travel and set their own work schedule.
- Ability to refine instructions immediately, based on student questions and feedback.
- Ability for creative expression through technology.
But, there are drawbacks, too:
- "Disconnected" feeling at some points in the semester when students aren't asking as many questions. Some instructors miss classroom lectures and in-class discussions.
- Reliance on technology. Not all instructors are comfortable with the technology required for online and hybrid courses. The eLearning department is here to help if you need it.
- Courses must be complete before the semester starts, so instructors must do a great amount of planning ahead of time.
Benefits and Drawbacks for Students
Students have many benefits in the online classroom:
But, students also face drawbacks:
- Ability to learn from just about anywhere, thanks to mobile technology.
- Ability to work and earn a degree, without having to rearrange a work schedule.
- Ability to adapt coursework for their specific learning styles, since good online courses are designed with visual, auditory and even kinesthetic elements to engage all learning styles.
But, students also face drawbacks:
- Some students miss the social interaction of the classroom.
- Students may have trouble finding help when they need it. Try to remind your students that tutoring, advising, and the rest of our student services are available online.
Bottom Line
Not all instructors are cut out to teach online. Not all students are cut out to take online courses. It's a fact of life, and it is perfectly ok. But online courses do benefit a large chunk of our student population.
Completion rates for online courses are the same, if not better, than those found in our seated courses. Create quality online courses, and your students will learn.
Completion rates for online courses are the same, if not better, than those found in our seated courses. Create quality online courses, and your students will learn.
Next Steps
When you are ready to move on, proceed to Section 15.3 The Course Startup Checklist.