Online Class Systems in the University - Essay Example

Approximately 3 million enrolments in online courses are reported in the U.S.A by American sources. According to the Statistical Analysis Report February 2002, at least 3.3 million signed up in no less than one online course. According to the Sloan Report, students appear to be at least as satisfied with what they achieve from online courses as they are with the traditional ones. Studies show that public schools offer more online courses than private schools. It is evident that online learning has become a popular form of schooling with numerous advantages.

This system, however, has disadvantages to it that should not be overlooked. The quality of these courses is not very high (Sims 54). Problems encountered in the online system of learning and their solutions The following are some of the problems that may be encountered in an online learning system along with their solutions: Computer illiteracy is a major problem facing online learning systems. . Technology has proven to be quite unreliable and break downs occur at any point even when the system was initially operating smoothly.

Students are responsible for their own progress and as if this is not enough, they have to keep up with technological advancement. Sometimes, something that seems as simple as establishing contact with the learning provider can turn into the most cumbersome challenge even to computer wizards let alone the novice. This may lead to frustration and discouragement which may cause the learner to discontinue with the program. The University Of Central Florida found that technical problems were a cause for students’ withdrawal.

Even the most sophisticated technology happens to be unreliable and the question is not whether the system will fail, but when. A server hosting the program could suddenly crash and cut off all learners from the class, internet connection could fail or get disconnected abruptly and the institution hosting the connection could be bogged down by users hence cause it to be slow or fail altogether. For online programs to be successful, the technology in use ought to be reliable and friendly to the users.

This can be achieved by using systems that have been upgraded to ensure weak points have been dealt with appropriately. While online learning may be considered an effective method of education for the mature and self-disciplined students, some learners are dependent and have problems assuming the responsibilities required by an online system of learning. Elementary and secondary students fall into this category. Such students need to be self-motivated, organized and have the ability to manage their time well in order to successfully participate in the online program.