The Impact of Online/Distanced Learning in Higher Education: An MBA Student and Professor’s Perspective
From the eyes of both an MBA student at Nexford University and a professor with extensive experience in distance education, online learning offers a valuable and flexible approach to higher education. This article delves into the pros and cons of online/distance learning, exploring the experiences and insights gained from both perspectives.
Personal Experience as an MBA Student
My journey as an MBA student at Nexford University has been nothing short of inspiring. Like many other digital nominees, I found the online learning system has provided a highly adaptable educational experience, allowing me to juggle my academic responsibilities alongside other commitments. The sheer convenience of accessing lectures and materials remotely has greatly facilitated a personalized learning environment. However, success in this mode of education hinges on the ability to build a robust online support system and maintain a high level of discipline.
The university has excellently contributed to fostering this by organizing WhatsApp groups and alumni support networks, ensuring students have access to peers and mentors who can provide guidance and emotional support. Yet, the complexity of online education cannot be underestimated, and a strong sense of self-discipline is paramount for harnessing the full potential of these resources.
Professional Insights as a Professor
As a professor with a chair in the online department and an educational background in undergraduate courses leading to the BA or BS degree, my observations and experiences in online education span a broad spectrum. Online learning can indeed be beneficial for students who are unable to attend on-site classes due to various constraints. In terms of content and learning outcomes, the quality of online education is comparable to that of traditional on-site learning. However, there are notable differences in how the material is presented and the methods of assessment.
Many online classes follow a predictable pattern, with consistent assignments and readings from term to term. This structure allows students to reuse previously submitted assignments, which can lead to some skepticism about the rigidity and uniqueness of the learning experience. Additionally, the lack of in-person supervision in online assessments can raise concerns about academic integrity, as the questions and answers can be easily found online.
Well-designed online courses, much like their traditional counterparts, should have clearly stated learning objectives, accessible course materials, and detailed grading rubrics. It is crucial for professors to establish clear expectations and standards, ensuring that assessments are reflective of the true learning goals. When professors design their own courses, they are more likely to adapt the content to include current issues and up-to-date findings, which can enhance the relevance and depth of the educational experience.
Turn-key classes, on the other hand, require minimal input from professors and can be managed by individuals with limited experience. While this model can be cost-effective and flexible, it often lacks the depth and customization needed for a rich educational experience. These standardized courses may evaluate students based on superficial metrics, such as the frequency and length of responses, without delving into substantive subject matter or critical thinking skills.
Challenges and Opportunities in Graduate Programs
As an experienced professor, my insights extend to the graduate level, where the landscape of online education presents unique challenges and opportunities. While some senior academic administrators may suggest that online graduate programs are easier to complete, requiring only a few short papers, this is not universally true. Comprehensive examinations and rigorous dissertation requirements are often in place, which reflects the seriousness of obtaining a postgraduate degree.
Despite this, there are anecdotal observations that suggest on-site graduate programs may have a more stringent approach to dissertation expectations. Many doctoral degree holders find their own dissertation processes challenging and sometimes question the rigor of their own academic journey. However, every doctoral candidate has their unique experience and perspective, which adds a layer of individuality to the pursuit of higher education.
It is essential to recognize that while online learning provides flexibility, it is not without its challenges. Building a strong online support system, maintaining academic integrity, and ensuring that learning objectives are clearly defined are key to a successful online education experience.
In conclusion, the experiences shared from both a student and a professor provide a comprehensive view of the benefits and drawbacks of online/distance learning. While there are valid concerns about academic integrity and the depth of learning, the adaptability and flexibility of online education make it a valuable option for many students.
Keywords: online learning, distance education, graduate programs