Experience and outcomes: how do online classes differ from those taken on campus?
Online courses and their on-campus counterparts share the same syllabi and are identical in terms of learning objectives and material covered. Differences are most apparent in how each context lends itself to different learning styles. Some students appreciate the structure of an on-campus class. The physical presence of a lecturer can be inspiring, the presence of fellow students in a room stimulating and the structure of a “place and time” schedule grounding. Other students are good at managing their time and appreciate a greater degree of flexibility. These students tend to do very well in the online environment. Students in online classes work at their own speed, review lectures and class exhibits as often as needed and thoughtfully craft arguments in writing for the discussion board.
