Online Universities Weblog

Drexel University's independent student newspaper recently published a critique of the college's online courses. The editorial acknowledges that online learning can be helpful, but suggests that there are some problems with the current system. Here's a blurb:

"The University…must be careful with its use of online technologies for its traditional undergraduate programs. The Provost's office must not lose sight of the fact that many undergraduate students come to Drexel expecting a brick-and-mortar experience with face-to-face interactions between professors and classmates. Even though Drexel may be expanding its online learning venture, it should not abandon its traditional approach to education. Technology should enhance, not replace, the classroom experience…

We are concerned about the quality of Drexel's online offerings. Professors and students often complain that BB Vista and Blackboard have clumsy interfaces. Both parties cannot find features and often times they just give up. It is essential for the learning experience that these tools make learning easier, not harder. It almost seems as if the online courses have been put in place to accommodate the students that the University has enrolled, but for which doesn't provide classrooms. This shouldn't be the case."

It's important that students know what they sign up for. Those who choose to enroll in a brick-and-mortar college shouldn't be forced to take numerous online classes. Likewise, online students shouldn't be assigned lengthy residency periods, without being warned in advance.

I think the editorial also makes a good point about technology being a help, rather than a hindrance. If you've ever tried to give a multimedia presentation in front of a live audience, you probably know the feeling (i.e. the fact that Powerpoint always refuses to work in front of a crowd…). These are problems that can't be solved overnight. But, if online schools keep working to make the technology user-friendly, taking an online class should soon be as easy as opening a book.

Top Online Colleges

	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.
	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.
	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.
	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.
	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.
	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.
	Saint Leo University - Associate's, Bachelor's & Master's Degrees. Reaching students all over the world, Saint Leo University has a truly diverse student body, including first time undergrads and working professionals. The university is dedicated in providing their students with the skills, tools, and knowledge needed to succeed in their desired professional careers.
	Westwood College - Associate's & Bachelor's Degrees. Westwood College offers a wide array of programs ranging from Business Administration to Web Design. Students are sure to find the quality education and skills needed in order to succeed and achieve meaningful careers by attending Westwood.
	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.
	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.
	Virginia College - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Virginia College offers a myriad of online programs for students seeking degrees anywhere from business administration to criminal justice. Their career-focused curriculum provides students with an edge upon graduation.
	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.
	Strayer University - Associate's & Bachelor's Degrees. Strayer University uses a student-centric approach to its educational curriculum and each student benefits from this ideal. Strayer University is an accredited university with degrees in high-growth industries.
	Penn Foster Career School - Certificates. With career-focused programs, Penn Foster Career School is an ideal choice for students who want to pursue their desired careers. The college is staffed with industry and academic professionals who have superior knowledge within their fields.

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