On campus, there are three types of ways students can attend class; in the classroom, online, or a hybrid mix where they are partially online, and partially attend class. Online classes are popular to students as it allows them to have more flexibility in their schedule or grant them more freedom in how they approach learning.
"I love the convenience that it offers to students who have complex lives- a lot who have families, who are working, who are athletes, parents who are older, life. A lot of life is happening for college students and the convenience gives them the opportunity to take classes and further their education while also managing other aspects of their life. I think it opens up possibilities." J. Alex Alexander, senior lecturer for the department of communications said.
Alexander also said she believes a bonding experience can occur through the use of a computer screen and "the reduction of speech anxiety when a student is in their own element. I think it is quite innovative personally, the convenience I love, the skillfulness that we are utilizing technology. It offers me as a faculty member a lot more flexibility," she said.
Online classes can also be drastically different from the classroom environment.
"Teaching face to face is where we are all together at the same time, can have discussions, students can ask questions and get answers right away as opposed to when I'm teaching online – I get one question at a time and email people back. Different prep and different mentality, " Alexander said.
Perspective on online classes varies from person to person.
"I like the flexibility and that I can create lectures and assignments on my own schedule, whereas I am teaching in person I have to show up at a certain time and place. What I don't like is that it is harder to prevent cheating on exams and quizzes when they are administered online as opposed to in person," Carmen Culotta, instructor of psychology said.
Culotta believes that when a student takes an online class, it requires more self-discipline and self-teaching, and that you have to invest in time in these classes just as you would in a regular classroom.
Besides online classes and classes on campus, the hybrid course is also available.
"Hybrid courses is where the majority of work is done online, but students still come to campus to take exams. I teach some hybrid courses as well. I like these courses because it does make cheating more difficult, keeps students engaged, and gives them an opportunity to get to know the professor a little bit," Culotta said.
Senior Nancy Shuler recommends online classes as the flexibility aspect of it has helped her schedule.
