Topic > Technology in Online Education - 1986

Introduction There has been a lot of research into both online and traditional education, which includes instructional methods and program design. In order for a student to decide how he wants to learn, we must evaluate the choice from his point of view. This article examines both traditional and various forms of online education from this point of view. Also consider the pros and cons of each form of education. Additionally, as educators now have myriad technological tools to assist them in designing and teaching courses, the discussion continues about how these tools can both overcome the negative aspects of online education. Traditional Learning from the Student's Perspective Learning in a traditional, face-to-face environment is an age-old tradition. Students enjoy the interaction between themselves and their instructor. Younger individuals who are pursuing post-secondary education for the first time are more likely to choose the traditional method. They may reside and live away from home and want to fully immerse themselves in college or university life. This is often a life-changing social experience for many, where they will make new friends, work together on projects and take part in special interest activities such as sports, music or other clubs. Mature students may already have jobs, families or other obligations that prevent them from moving or settling down to continue their studies. They may also be asked to return to school or receive additional training by their employers as a condition of further employment. They are more likely to choose a school close to where they live. Students often choose the traditional method because t...... half of the paper ......). Distance Education: A Systems View, 2nd Edition.Wadsworth.Online Degrees Gaining Acceptance Among Employers - But Concerns Remain., (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.elearners.com/articles/all-posts/how-employers-view-online-degrees/ on October 27, 2011. Pasternak, A., (2006). Solar Wi-Fi to bring internet to developing countries. Retrieved from http://www.treehugger.com/files/2006/08/solar_wifi_to_b.php#ch02 on October 28, 2011.Tamashiro, R., (2002). Pros and cons of online learning: Mixed perceptions among teacher education students. Retrieved from http://www.hiceducation.org/edu_proceedings/Roy%20Tamashiro.pdf on October 28, 2011. The pros and cons of e-learning and educational technology. (2011). Retrieved from http://www.oxbridgeessays.com/blog/the-pros-and-cons-of-e-learning-and-education-technology-717/ October 27, 2011.