“It can’t be done online…”

Posted on September 12, 2008 by David Gray

No recent article – and comments posted in response – has in my opinion so aptly captured the learning online versus on-ground debate as this opinion piece, entitled, A Defense of In-Person Education, published by Inside Higher Ed, and written by Jane Arnold, who is the reading specialist and assistant professor of English at Adirondack Community College.

Ms. Arnold says some provocative things. With some, I agree. Others infuriate or frustrate me. But I’d rather you read her perspective and then the many comments of others as they respond to the various assertions about online learning made by Ms. Arnold. Her indictment, on the surface at least, compels more attention in view of the fact that she is pursuing her Ph.D. online. I will refrain from commentary on the unnamed provider of her online doctoral program.

The contribution I wish to make, instead of providing a point-by-point response, is to suggest the debate, as framed – as an either/or, winner-take-all kind of thing – is neither right nor useful. The question isn’t which school of thought will prevail. Both will. I think a much better question is: How will the online and in-person manifestations of postsecondary education evolve, separately and together, to optimize the opportunities and experiences for all who wish to learn?