Reflection: Migrating aspects between online and in-class courses

Online education has many advantages that fit and accommodate to students needs and learning styles. Online education offers flexibility to students and a great variety of schools to choose from. This is why it is very important to meditate on the aspects that make in-class courses the bases of education. In this text, I will take a look at some of the characteristics about in-class education that can and cannot be transferred to online courses; this with the intention of providing a greater view of the subject. Providing a positive learning environment is essential to capture the attention of the student and promote significant learning. I understand that the place where the computer sits may or may not be able to be rearranged, but the aspect of the course itself may be moderated by its creator. An attractive and easy to digest application is always a good motivator for learning. The pictures, the colors, and the manageability of the applications can reach to a level of acceptance depending of its “looks and practicality”. Another characteristic of in-class courses that could be used in online classes is the proper combination of teaching and learning strategies and techniques. This aspect should always be taken in consideration since it provides a variety of ways for students to learn. One must not forget that everyone learns in different ways and teachers teach differently as well. Another aspect that is important to bring to online courses is a trustful relationship between the instructor and the student. Even though both are not present (physically), they coexist in a virtual platform. A great way to encourage students to participate in these courses is by having the instructors provide positive feedback as a way of personalized coaching on time and manner. This way the students could be engaged even more into their education. Other characteristics from in-class education that can migrate to online courses may include rewarding systems, promoting respect and values, renewing material and learning sources. Some characteristics that cannot migrate from in-class to online courses are sitting and table arrangement, reinforcement of school behavior policies, and assurance of immediate coaching. Sitting and table arrangement can obviously not be part of online classes, this due to the physical absence of students and classrooms. However, students can set up their work-study place to satisfy their comfort needs. Even though this is a type of arrangement, it could be considered a learning strategy. The reinforcement of school behavior policies are another thing that may not suit online courses, this applies mainly as a behavioral controllers and, since the interaction is virtual, these responsibility falls directly into the hands of the student; on line courses mainly promote autonomy and self-control. Unfortunately, a very delicate characteristic that may be hard to maintain is immediate coaching at all times. Since live chat may be limited, students may feel a little disoriented when dissipating spontaneous doubts at non-working or operational hours.   Although online and in-class courses have certain differences, both have something in common, they promote education and help students to become auto-sufficient, responsible, and well prepared human beings, capable of handling any situation they may come across in life. This text does not choose a side; instead, it sees both systems as complements of each other.