Thomas Suarez
“BOL has allowed me to run my venture capital funded startup, obtain a technology patent, build my non-profit online programming class, and give speeches worldwide, all in synchrony with my classes.”
– Taylor Thomas
My experiences in blended and online learning (BOL) classes have been highly beneficial to my academic success. In traditional classrooms, I have been frustrated by the time wasted by menial class management, distractions, and unproductive waiting time while others present work. I also find traditional courses to be inflexible about attendance.
In BOL, I have appreciated the focus and flexibility to pursue other interests while maintaining my grades and commitment. BOL has allowed me to run my venture capital funded startup, obtain a technology patent, build my non-profit online programming class, and give speeches worldwide, all in synchrony with my classes.
“The overall experience of my BOL courses has been incredible, and I will continue utilizing this medium as I progress into college-level courses next year.”
I have been enrolled in Spanish classes online for the last two years on a one-on-one basis with a native teacher in Argentina. We utilized Skype for video chat, which was fantastic because I could make a real connection with the instructor. We collaborated on assignments in real-time via Google Drive, and analyzed the virtual textbook with Pearson eText.
BOL offered an efficient timeframe (25 hours per semester) in which I was able to explore topics in language, grammar, world events, and local culture. I was the only student speaking during the class, so my fluency improved drastically. When the classes ended, I missed our regular discussions. This does not happen in traditional classes!
I have also benefited from a blended classroom for Math courses. It was wonderful to be able to proceed at my own pace, and to have the advantage of group discussions and an on-site teacher to answer questions and provoke thought. Being able to progress in the course in my own time was impactful.
I have given speeches to large audiences at worldwide events in the US, Mexico, Dubai, and Saudi Arabia on technology and education, and have often spoken of the benefits of BOL.