TBO.com - TBO is Tampa Bay Online

Still Up To The Student

ADVERTISEMENT

The Tampa Tribune

Published: August 3, 2008

Regarding "Online-Class Enrollment Accelerates Into Fall" (front page, July 27):

I'll now add gas prices to the long list of reasons why students sign up for my online algebra courses. But the message you missed is that realistic expectations, not just fuel costs or hectic schedule, must guide a student's decision to study online.

In the late '90s education reformers predicted that technology would change the 21st century teacher "from the sage on the stage, to the guide from the side." Distance education is about as far to the side as we can go.

Instructors may spend many months developing an online course that addresses the same objectives and level of assessment as face-to-face classes. But once it begins, it is the student who drives the level of interaction. Hard work, good communication and meeting deadlines are essential for success.

LIANA FERNANDEZ FOX

Temple Terrace

The writer is professor of mathematics through Distance Learning Ybor City Campus, Hillsborough Community College.

Share this:

Loading Comments...

Email Print

ADVERTISEMENT