Effectiveness of Online Learning

In this video, the President/CEO of the International Association of K-12 Online Learning, Susan Patrick discusses the necessity and effectiveness of online learning. She argues that schools are lacking trained teachers as well as student motivation. Online learning is the solution to this issue in her opinion. She states that online learning gives teachers opportunities to have more one on one time with students, while also giving them flexibility. She claims students do not want to be in school all day long, they want to be given different opportunities to work with other students and teachers. She argues that students want an alternative to the standard school day and to be challenged through online learning. She thinks online learning is more engaging for students and increases the level of understanding and quality of learning. Susan Patrick is an expert on this topic; however, online learning is her career, so she is quite biased. Online learning is extremely beneficial for some teachers and students, although, in my opinion not as necessary as she claims. I do not think all students will benefit from this exactly the same. Not all students are disciplined or independent enough for it. However, for some students, who do need a challenge and alternative learning options, online learning would be highly beneficial to them.

Coleman, Stephanie. Why Do Students Like Online Learning? (2003). Retrieved from http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2003/08/26/earlyshow/contributors/reginalewis/main570268.shtml August 14, 2005. From Lewis, Regina; Earning a Degree Online.
The article “Why do students like online learning?” by Stephanie Coleman argues the benefits and effectiveness of online learning. She offers numerous reasons to support the topic. She argues the convenience of accessing classes anywhere, whenever students find it easiest. She claims online learning supports the individual student, who has his or her own way of learning. She thinks that by learning online, students can choose to learn however they find suits their needs best, therefore making it an effective learning/teaching strategy. She states that students will feel more comfortable in discussions online with classmates and teachers, as opposed to face to face, in the classroom setting. She claims this would most specifically appeal to the shy or intimidated student. She argues online learning effectively expands knowledge from more than books. The online learning environment contains endless amount of information and opportunities to learn and communicate.
My impression of this information is that it is pretty accurate. Online learning definitely is effective in the areas discussed in the article. There are people who would do completely well on an online learning environment; however there are still those who do better in a real life classroom setting. The effectiveness of online learning is completely relative to the individual person/student.