Jacqueline Ganter
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I have found that, compared to the traditional classroom, online and hybrid learning allowed me to learn in a more personalized way, and gave me the freedom to study at my own pace.
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– Jacqueline Ganter
Technology has drastically changed the world everyday, and education is no exception. Through hybrid and online classes, students from kindergarten through graduate school have unlimited opportunities to enhance and diversify their learning experience. Whether students are battling health and emotional issues, have unique educational and living circumstances, or are looking for ways to accelerate their academics, online learning offers flexible and individualized possibilities to fit anyone’s needs. Personally, courses which offer direct teacher and student communication, an open schedule, and access to online learning resources are most compelling. I have found that, compared to the traditional classroom, online and hybrid learning allowed me to learn in a more personalized way, and gave me the freedom to study at my own pace.
There are many reasons why a student or parent would choose online learning. In 2018, I was given the opportunity to join Rowan College of South Jersey’s High School Options Program, where I could take college courses during my high school career. While living nearly an hour away from the campus and being under driving age may seem like barriers, I was able to join the program and complete 37 college credits through online courses. Despite my circumstances, online learning gave me the privilege of accelerating my education and taking advantage of wonderful opportunities. This is true for many families in countless situations; whether a child is being bullied, has a health disability, or lives far away from campus, online learning bridges the divide between education and the individual.
There are many characteristics of online learning which make it an appealing choice. The ability to communicate with teachers and fellow online learners brings the classroom to the student. I enjoyed building a fellowship with my classmates and receiving one-on-one assistance from my teachers in any setting. The flexible schedule permitted me to work at my own pace and time. As a quick learner, I appreciated being able to turn in assignments early and accelerate in the course. Having the freedom to work at any time or day allowed me to keep my job and do more with my family. The many learning outlets online were also compelling. With available ebooks, videos, and virtual labs, I was able to get a clear understanding of the material at hand without being in the classroom. Overall, virtual courses offer a variety of unique attributes tailored to fit any student’s needs.
After spending two years in a classroom, and two years in an online setting, I can confidently say that online learning has greatly improved my educational experience. Unlike the traditional classroom, I was able to accelerate in my classes and finish work on my own time. I was also able to choose courses from an almost unlimited variety of subjects and material, unlike the conventional school where courses are often limited to basic subjects. Classes such as ethics, German, and programming were fascinating lessons that are not available at my local high school. From a social standpoint, I could maintain connections and work with other students through video chat, online messaging, and phone calls. Working online has unlocked unlimited possibilities for me as a learner, of which I would be denied in a traditional school.