It was with joy that I read this article from a student at Arizona State University.

With this grasp on critical thinking and exploring both sides of the issue, it's apparent that at least for some people, college is doing its job. But, as this student asks, will online education change that?

Who doesn't root for the single mother who was able to chip away at that nursing degree because of the flexibility that online classes offered?

But when that same technology allows ASU students to opt for a one-sided educational experience simply because they don't want to make the daily trek across campus, it's harder to jump for joy.

While many online classes offer interactive discussions, nothing can replace the experience of being in a classroom, part of a live discussion or having to present an idea in front of dozens of peers.

A big part of the college experience is learning to communicate.

Writing messages onto a discussion board may allow students to get points across more clearly through proof-reading and editing. But what about producing responses on the fly like, say, in a job interview?

It's that kind of human pressure and interaction that's lacking in an online environment.

If the opportunity for face-to-face engagement with the material and those teaching it is available, it seems like a waste not to take it.

It's a common dilemma, though one usually discussed by those already enmeshed in academia. It's refreshing to see students beginning to openly debate the pros and cons of online education.

Students, what do you think? Are classes online an important educational development, or simply cause for laziness? Do they improve your life, or do you miss out on important experiences?

Please let us know what you think, in our Comments section.