Distance learning and online computer courses would replace traditional classroom learning.
Descriptions of the changes wrought by the information revolution have scientifically proven how advanced and civilized our society is becoming. Recently, New York Times published a lengthy article on the
University of Phoenix --- a virtual university that offers accredited degrees for coursework performed entirely on the Internet. However, some people doubt if this trend will bring us benefits. Admittedly, from an enlightened and pragmatic perspective, I, personally, would assert that it's the time for alternative teaching methodologies to take the leading position from traditional classroom learning.
Not only the supporters of alternative learning, but also, I suppose, all of us could not deny the time-effectiveness and individualization that it brings to us. Unlike the traditional classroom learning which requires students to physically participate in class , distance learning and online computer courses allow students who for various reasons could not come to the classroom to customize their class schedules.
For instance, a single working mother, who has to work full-time in order to pay checks, cannot fit the curriculum schedule in a real classroom, but might have a larger possibility to enroll some courses through distance learning and online computer courses. That is, alternative learning styles turn the "mission impossible" in old days into a real and practical action right now. Besides, it is alternative learning styles that enhance the quality and efficiency of individual learning.
In most cases, alternative learning styles outweigh traditional classroom learning for one noticeable success that problem-solving process where most students have learning difficulties and problems is highly highlighted. In traditional classrooms, class time is given so limited for teachers to identify students'
learning difficulties and problems and to demonstrate knowledge further to solve them; however, distance learning as well as online computer courses provides each student with a better approach to ask questions of his(her) own and then get feedbacks from the teacher accordingly, which would concededly facilitate his(her) learning process at most.
Advantageous though they seem to be, alternative learning styles still have a long way to go. Based on the Internet and computer, the practicality of enforcement in nationwide scale seems beyond action.
Moreover, the assessment measures up to each individual vary from one person to another, which is lack of some validity and reliability.
From what was previously well stated, I firmly believe that as the emergence of alternative learning styles, traditional classroom learning will somehowbe taken the throne in educational field in the future.
Two Kinds of Teach ing
Face to Face Teaching
Institution where communicative action
System of educational action determined by
rational means-ends thinking.
Students ' and teachers ' actions are
Teachers ' and students ' actions are
predominantly determined by social norms. predominantly determined by technical rules.
Distance Teaching
takes place.
The medium of interaction between students The medium of interaction between the
and teachers is the "intersubjectively shared
students and teachers is "context-free
everyday language."
Teaching is determined by "reciprocal
Teaching follows "conditional prognoses"
and "conditional imperatives."
The focus is on the "internalization of
The focus is on learning "skills and
qualifications."
Teaching aims at preserving the
Teaching aims at "problem-solving,
attainment of objectives by applying means-to-an-end principles.
Students are punished on the basis of Students fail because of their inability
conventional sanctions. They fail because of
cope with the reality of learning at a distance.
decisions made by the authority of teacher,
They drop out of their courses, for instance.
headmaster, director of education.
Advantages: emancipation, individuation,
Advantages: Increase of the effectiveness
language."
behavior expectations."
roles."
institution.
to
The medium of interaction between students The medium of interaction between the extension of dominance-free communication. of the teaching system. Geographical reach.