Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic, online classes have become a norm. Almost everyone in our generation has taken an online class at some point in their college career. While this is a rite of passage for most college students, not all enjoy this virtual reality.
With this, online classes at Northwestern State University of Louisiana are a common choice for students. On-campus students might find online classes beneficial because they can complete the classwork around their in-person classes, personal life and work schedule. Programs are also offered for students to complete their degree entirely online.
Although online classes are often thought to have a meeting through virtual software for the professor to give a lecture, many online classes are now planned out in a self-paced program which allows students to complete the course at their own pace. This means that an instructor is only there to answer questions and to grade coursework. Without a lecture for the course, online classes are not as effective as in-person classes.
While a self-paced class can be helpful for students to complete assignments whenever they have time in their schedule, it can be difficult for students to thoroughly learn the material provided. Students have to teach themselves through the textbook, PowerPoints and other required material.
If the material is a difficult subject for the student, it’s harder for them to grasp the main ideas. Tutoring options may be available at NSU, but students may not always be able to take advantage of this service.
Students have the freedom to do online classwork whenever they choose, and many students choose the comfort of their home or dorm room. This can lead to students procrastinating and not getting assignments done on time. If students are unmotivated or uninterested in an online course, they might not be eager to learn the material or study required textbooks, so they don’t absorb all the information or benefit from the class as they should.
Often, students don’t take advantage of the opportunity to contact professors to schedule a meeting or even just to ask a simple question. Because the class has been taught through only assignments and tests, students may feel intimidated about reaching out to the professor in charge of overseeing the class. Some professors, though, might not be quick to respond to emails, therefore students are discouraged to reach out.
Without seeing a professor in person and getting the opportunity to speak to them before or after class, students can fall behind due to a lack of communication.
Online classes also separate classmates, who are always a great resource for students to contact if they have issues such as trouble understanding an assignment. Connecting with peers is important for college students to gain social skills and engage academically, and online classes don’t support this part of the college experience.
Some college students thrive in scheduled, in-person classes where they can focus on only the professor and the material being taught. It is also easier to meet and stay in contact with classmates. When it comes to online classes, focusing on classwork is more difficult with outside distractions and less structure.
Online classes offer flexible learning opportunities, allowing students to access education from anywhere at their own pace. However, challenges like maintaining self-discipline and managing distractions lead many students to lower academic performance.
