Spring Break
Editorial
Online classes need upgrade
Editorial Board
Issue date: 11/30/07 Section: Ed-Op
Lessons are delivered in a very static format, via PowerPoint or lecture notes. The curriculum needs to be built in a way to anticipate student questions and the professor needs to respond quickly to e-mail and message board posts. The key is for the University to understand that converting a physical class to an online class is not as easy as flipping a switch. The professor needs to be taught how to handle the nuances of running an online class. The curriculum needs to change to ensure discussion and interaction between students and professors still exist.
PowerPoint is becoming the digital chalkboard for some professors and their use of the technology is as innovative as the antiqued board itself. Technology is designed to engage and online courses must be a two-way communication for them to be effective.
As the University expands its online programs for traditional undergraduates, it should also upgrade its online tools. Most importantly, the current BB Vista and Blackboard portals need to be revamped so that they work for students and professors. These services need to be easy to use. Other features should be integrated. Videotaped lectures should be an option for every professor to use. Maybe the system should allow for real-time chat so that those in the "virtual classroom" at the same time can interact with each other. The possibilities to make the online classroom dynamic are endless.
By just offering the tools, administrators are allowing professors to create static online learning experiences. This devalues the educational experience - students are not getting the same quality education a traditional face-to-face experience that has traditionally been offered at Drexel.
PowerPoint is becoming the digital chalkboard for some professors and their use of the technology is as innovative as the antiqued board itself. Technology is designed to engage and online courses must be a two-way communication for them to be effective.
As the University expands its online programs for traditional undergraduates, it should also upgrade its online tools. Most importantly, the current BB Vista and Blackboard portals need to be revamped so that they work for students and professors. These services need to be easy to use. Other features should be integrated. Videotaped lectures should be an option for every professor to use. Maybe the system should allow for real-time chat so that those in the "virtual classroom" at the same time can interact with each other. The possibilities to make the online classroom dynamic are endless.
By just offering the tools, administrators are allowing professors to create static online learning experiences. This devalues the educational experience - students are not getting the same quality education a traditional face-to-face experience that has traditionally been offered at Drexel.
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