As I discussed in my last post, creating a connection with students is pretty important. But, video and podcast courses can easily do the job of larger lecture classrooms. If you've ever been in a traditional large lecture class (sometime with stadium seating), you've seen that there isn't much of a connection to be had. Out of the hundreds of students watching the lecture, maybe one or two will get to ask a question. In such a situation, online learning can easily replace sit-down courses.
A recent article from the Sacramento News discussed some professors' thoughts on video learning:
The program is not embraced by everyone. Some professors prefer the more traditional approach, and Kando believes some of that may be inspired by concerns over job security and fear that if they record their lectures one year, why come back next semester to give the same talk?Kando acknowledges this format does not work for every situation, particularly graduate classes with a small number of students where intense interpersonal discussions are encouraged.
But for the larger lecture classes, Kando says, distance education is a viable alternative, particularly on a campus where class space is at a premium. "It's not taking over," Kando says of the program. "It's just making a contribution to education."
Of course – professors will still be needed. Even if the same video lectures are used for several years (which actually isn't a bad idea…record the best lectures and edit out the unessential parts), students will still turn to professors to answer questions and explore ideas. The video lecture may replace the classroom lecture. But, no technology can replace the value of student / teacher connection.
Top Online Colleges
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University of Phoenix - Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's, & Doctoral Degrees. University of Phoenix shows each student how easy and convenient it is to earn your college degree through their distance learning program. Students can choose to learn at home or from a campus location near you.
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Kaplan University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Kaplan University is a dynamic institution that offers accredited, online degrees to students seeking to jump start a new career. Kaplan University makes it easy for students to get the college degree that they want.
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American InterContinental University Online - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. At American InterContinental University, every individual has an opporunity to receive an excellent college degree and the ability to maximize their human potential. American InterContinental University allows you to pick a time and place that fits your schedule.
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Ashford University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Ashford University has a rich tradition of online educational excellence. This excellence is shown in the quality of each class that every student receives.
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Grand Canyon University - Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Offering graduate and undergraduate degrees, Grand Canyon University is ideal for any individual, first-time students or working professionals, to pursue a degree toward their career of interest. Their excellence in online education has brought many students to attend the university.
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Liberty University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. At Liberty University, students educational goals and needs are met by an outstanding faculty and support staff. Any adult learner looking to go back to school will be pleased with the course offerings available at Liberty University.
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DeVry University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Students who attend DeVry University are welcomed with an outstanding faculty who put each students needs and dreams first. DeVry University is an accredited university that offers affordable degrees.
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Colorado Technical University - Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's & Doctoral Degrees. As a well-known, accredited online university, Colorado Technical University is committed to developing great leaders. They teach students the latest techniques, methods, skills and experience needed to succeed in the fast-paced economy.
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Everest University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Everest University is committed to the on-going commitment of providing each student with a high-quality, low-cost online education. Everest University has a well rounded faculty with real world experience.
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Strayer University - Associate's & Bachelor's Degrees. Westwood College uses a student-centric approach to its educational curriculum and each student benefits from this ideal. Westwood College is an accredited university with degrees in high-growth industries.
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