BY JULIAN LERMA
English 9/Mr. Davis
Los Alamos High School
Should students go to an online classroom or a physical classroom? Online learning and the physical classroom both have pros and cons. Online learning can be attended from anywhere at any time, unlike on campus learning, but it’s easier to get distracted and fatigued in an online class. There are fewer distractions, and it’s easier for the instructor to engage with their students in a physical classroom, but physical schools might not offer the courses that some students might want, that online schools do provide. Physical classes are better than online classes.
Online learning can be more convenient than traditional on campus learning in many ways. Students who have a strict schedule can take an online class because they might not have time for on campus learning, but by taking an online class, they miss out on interaction with other students and the teacher, and could very easily be distracted. For example, a student could be working full time, or have a family to take care of or that could be distracting, and they could take the class at night when they’re not working or when their family isn’t making a lot of noise, and get school done, but it could possibly take longer because of the strict schedule. Students also save more money by taking an online class. Since online classes can be taken anywhere at any time, students can save money that they would use on textbooks, dorm rooms, or commuting if they went to a physical school.
Online school also has many negative attributes. For online learning, students must make sure to get all of their work done and on time without an instructor telling them to do so, and procrastination can be an issue with getting work done since the student is not in an academic environment being supervised by the instructor. “There is no one to tell you to get to class on time. There is no one reminding you that assignments are due or that exams are coming. There is no one to preach to you, beg with you, plead with you to stay on top of your coursework.” (Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Courses, Montgomery College). Technical difficulties can also be a major issue in online courses. Problems with your internet connection, computer condition, and electricity can stop a student from attending online classes. Students can’t interact with other students or teachers for support in online classes, and this will make it harder for students to get help with something they don’t understand. “Technical difficulties such as internet connectivity issues, software compatibility issues, or issues with your laptop, can hinder your ability to access classes” (Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Classes. Cohen, Kobi).
Similar to online classes, physical, on campus learning also has its benefits and disadvantages. In a physical classroom, a teacher can supervise the classroom and make sure students are on task, and it is harder for students to get distracted because of this. Physical classes offer the same courses as online classes, but in a classroom students can interact and help each other, unlike online courses where the student teaches himself with online resources and can’t get support as easily as a student who attends a real classroom. Physical classes can work better for students who only work part time, and have a flexible schedule.
Physical school comes with disadvantages, as well. On campus learning requires students to buy their own textbooks, which isn’t ideal for students who might be on a tight budget. On campus learning doesn’t offer as many learning opportunities or paths as an online school would, so if a student wants to learn a specific subject, not all physical schools will have it. Commuting costs are also a problem to students who don’t have much money, on top of paying for the school they’re attending. “In addition, as one can attend virtual classes anywhere and anytime, students don’t have to travel” (Classroom vs. Online Learning, Streamlyn Academy). Physical classes can’t be attended at all times or from everywhere, which is an inconvenience to students who work full time or have other commitments.
Online and physical learning both have their pros and cons, but which one should you choose? The physical classroom is in many ways better than online courses, so students should try to take classes in a physical classroom when available. Online learning could be better for one student, and physical classes could be better for another student. If a student has a full time job, or wants to study in a subject that isn’t taught in their local college, online classes could be better for that student. On the other hand, if a student has a more flexible schedule, and isn’t looking for any specific subject, a physical school is best for this type of student.
Annotated Bibliography
“The 10 Benefits of Online Learning.” Drexel University, https://drexel.edu/soe/resources/student-teaching/advice/benefits-of-online-and-virtual-learning/. Accessed 14 May 2024.
Article explains if online learning is for you, and gives 10 benefits. Helped with the reduced costs part.
Cohen, Kobi. “Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Classes.” IU International University of Applied Sciences, https://www.iu.org/blog/studying-online/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-online-classes/. Accessed 14 May 2024.
Provides information on various advantages and disadvantages of taking an online class. Helped with the technical difficulties part of this article.
“Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Courses.” Montgomery College, https://www.montgomerycollege.edu/academics/online-learning/distance/advantages-and-disadvantages-online-courses.html. Accessed 14 May 2024.
Explains good things and bad things about online courses. Helped with the part that explains that there is no teacher telling you to get your work done if you take an online course.
“In-Person vs. Online Learning – Pros & Cons of Each.” Yellowdig, 22 September 2023, https://www.yellowdig.co/post/in-person-vs-online-learning-can-they-compare. Accessed 14 May 2024.
Article discusses the differences between online and physical school, and pros and cons of online and physical school. Helped when writing about how online classes are better for strict schedules.
“Classroom vs. Online Education: Which One Is Better for You?” Purdue Global, 10 March 2023, https://www.purdueglobal.edu/blog/student-life/classroom-versus-online/. Accessed 14 May 2024.
Article provides information on how online classes can be better than physical classes for some students. Helped with writing pros about online classes.
“Classroom vs. Online Learning: 4 Advantages and Disadvantages- 2023.” Streamlyn Academy, 12 February 2023, https://streamlynacademy.com/blog/classroom-vs-online-learning/. Accessed 14 May 2024.
Gives advantages and disadvantages of online and physical classes. Helped with writing about how online classes are better for students on a tight budget.