Thomas Suarez

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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.

 

FROM

Manhattan Beach, CA

HIGH SCHOOL

STAR Prep Academy

POST-SECONDARY

Georgia Institute of Technology