Some students prefer a traditional class setting compared to online classes
With an increase in technology, online classes are an option, but some students can’t break away from the traditional aspects of classroom learning.
Associate professor of journalism Tim Boudreau said online classes exclude certain things that are necessary for learning.
“I wouldn’t say (online classes) are harmful, except that there is a certain value in that face-to-face interaction, both with the structure and with your classmates," he said. "There is a dynamic interaction that is important for learning that you just miss out on with online classes."
Going to class is one thing, but doing the assignments is a different story. Online classes might not be the best choice if you aren’t self-motivated.
“I took a seven-and-a-half week online course,” Canton junior Mike Lintz said. “It was really hard for me to stay motivated. I definitely lost that discipline I had early on; or (discipline) I thought I had.”
Illinois sophomore Meaghan Maloney said she liked learning the material and not having to attend class in person, but she won't do it again.
“But after I completed (the course), I decided I wouldn’t want to take an online course because of how demanding it was," she said. "If you didn’t check it one or two days, you could miss a lot.”
Some students know that it takes a lot of self-discipline and time to make it through an online class and pass it. But others just don’t feel comfortable leaving the classroom and professor behind for an online course.
“I’ve definitely thought about taking an online class,” said Heather Beaudoin, an Escanaba sophomore. “Once I started really thinking about it, I wasn’t sure if it was the right choice for me, because I think I lack the self discipline that it does take. Also, I don’t like the idea of not knowing the professor and having to email them to communicate with them rather than discussing things face-to-face.”
Junior Bradley Sugg said he prefers traditional classes over online classes.
“I just like going to class and meeting students," the Plymouth native said. "I feel more connected to the school walking to class everyday and attending class in general. With an online class, I wouldn’t even think I was in college.”
Jackson sophomore Alyssa Ehlmann agrees that physically being on campus and in the class is more beneficial.
“I feel like I learn better when I’m actually in class,” Ehlmann said. “Listening to your professor as they explain things in class is better for me than if I were to read a ton of information about something and trying to regurgitate that in some way"
