I will look at and discuss the similarities and differences
between a traditional online education and complete online education
as well as the pros and cons of each.
First, since not all of us may
know the definition of each, I will quickly define them.
Traditional Online: This is used
to describe courses which meet normally, in the classroom,
but may use the internet or other online technology to supplement
or enhance learning.
Complete Online:Courses which
are primarily delivered over the internet to students at remote
locations. Online courses
may also meet periodically in a physical location such as
a classroom so long as the time spent does not exceed 25 percent
of total course time.
I will first discuss traditional online courses
I have had experience with traditional online courses both
as an ESL instructor as well as a student.
My
experience with traditional online as a teacher
As
an ESL instructor, I have found that students will get bored
quickly if I only use the textbook in my teaching. I could also use videos, music, or other gadgets,
but I have found that using the internet is an easy way help
students learn and keep them interested.
| Language Skill Practiced |
Types of website which can be used |
| Listening |
Radio
station websites, specific listening websites |
| Writing |
e-mail,
message boards, instant messengers |
| Reading |
Search
engines, any website |
Explanation
of table
The
internet has many interesting and easy ways for students to
practice certain language skills.
Listening: Students get bored if
they are only able to hear the teacher's voice, and carrying
a lot of extra cassette tapes might not always be the best
solution. The
internet is an easy way for students to practice their listening. Most radio station or television stations have
websites where you are able to listen to programs.
Writing: E-mail can be used to help
students practice their writing.
The teachers can ask for students' e-mail addresses
and ask their permission to give them to other students.
The teachers can exchange the e-mail addresses with
other teachers and assign students e-mail pen pals. Message
boards are also an easy way to practice writing. The internet has message boards for many topics
that may interest students.
Reading:
Virtual tours or scavenger hunts may be used to assist
students's reading skills. Many museums have websites which
give virtual tours. The
teacher can also have students go on a scavenger hunt.
The teacher can use any topic, make some questions,
and have students answer the question with the internet. The
students then look in search engines for websites which may
help them.
Speaking: There
are several websites which let students practice speaking
and there is technology which lets you make telephone calls
over the internet. However, in my opinion, if you want to
practice speaking, it is best if you meet in person.
Next>>
|
