Dispelling the Myth of “Not Connecting” Online
Posted on December 13, 2007 by Jennifer Brady
Appearing at the timesunion.com site, this Letter to the Editor from David Steindorf, Ph.D, makes a strong and cogent argument in favor of distance learning for some students. He speaks from first-hand experience. He holds a part-time faculty position at SUNY’s Empire State College in its Distance Learning Program.
What I like best about Dr. Steindorf’s viewpoint is that it is student-centric and not technology-driven. In other words, he’s not advancing the cause of distance learning merely on the basis that today’s technology makes it possible. He’s advancing the idea because for some types of students, an online interactive experience fits their personal learning styles and preferences. For example, he writes:
“Even in smaller classes, students who tend to be shy or have difficulty communicating in front of competing peers will find themselves blossoming in an Internet-based discussion that is facilitated by the professor. I have heard many people comment that it is easier for them to express themselves openly and honestly online than in person…”
As said before, offering students choices of delivery formats (i.e., traditional face-to-face classroom, fully online, blended learning) enables students to choose the method where they learn best. Some excel online for the exact reasons noted by Dr. Steindorf while others are better served in a traditional setting. One is not more instructionally sound than the other but better for the student. This latest article again dispels the myth that the online environment isn’t interactive, engaging and is instead an environment where learners can thrive and connect with faculty and peers.
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