“[A new meta-analysis released Friday by the U.S. Department of Education] found that students who took all or part of their instruction online performed better, on average, than those taking the same course through face-to-face instruction. Further, those who took ‘blended’ courses -- those that combine elements of online learning and face-to-face instruction -- appeared to do best of all.”
This quote comes from an article in yesterday’s InsideHigherEd, which also notes that, “many colleges report that blended instruction is among the fastest-growing types of enrollment.”
Having been working with online programs for more than 10 years now, we’ve long known the virtues of online learning. That being said, we’d love to know your thoughts on what might make the online component so effective right now. Please add to the list below by writing in the comments section.
· Opportunity to work on a customized schedule, when the student can truly focus on learning
· Opportunity to work at student’s own pace
· Online environment creates less anxiety in asking questions or consulting with the professor
· Strong focus on schoolwork due to the need for self-motivation