Communications of the ACM
Seven Student Myths of the Online Classroom
Credit: eLearn Magazine
The flexibility of the online learning environment can give rise to seven different myths or inaccuracies about what is expected from both students and instructors. Many of the same features of a traditional institution of higher education are valid for online universities: books, faculty, administrative processes, and homework. The one key difference is that online universities rarely require face-to-face student and faculty meetings so interactions and assessment must take place in the virtual world. The problem with these myths is that they can lead to disappointment in grades and faculty interactions. Students who are fully cognizant of expectations — their own and from faculty — can rise to the level needed to be successful in this learning environment without the frustrations that sometimes come with myths.
The most popular myth around the online classroom is that students can log into the class any time they want. The fact, however, is that online classes, just as on-campus classes, have due dates for assignments. Discussions must be posted, written essays must be submitted, and quizzes are required to be completed by specified dates. Another popular myth is that instructors are available 24/7 for response and feedback. However, instructors do not sit at a computer day and night waiting for student questions or comments. An online class is not just like texting or emailing: a student's posting to an online discussion forum should be like a well-developed essay.
Students also believe, incorrectly, that online classes require less time and less work than on-campus classes. An online class is more flexible because students do not have to be in class at a specific time, but the workload and time required is the same, and sometimes more, than an on-campus class. The three hours saved by not attending on-campus lectures should be spent researching and posting to an online class. As part of these online classes, instructors are expected to be subject matter experts in their own fields, just not in the computer or connectivity technology required for online classes. Without seeing everyone in the class, some students may think they are the only student with special circumstances. Even in an on campus classroom, students are not aware of the backgrounds or uniqueness of each student. As to the quality of the faculty teaching the classes, accredited colleges and universities must hire faculty who meet at least the minimum degree earned in order to keep accreditation.
From eLearn Magazine
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