Many people may assume that online classes are easier than classes on campus, but in many instances, this is not the case.  It depends on a number of factors including who your instructor is, what system they use (Catalyst or other) and what types of classes you tend to be best at.

In my case, I am a writer, so I have made every effort to complete all my writing classes online when at all possible.  

Some online courses are just that– online.  Others involve online work as well as a portion of your time be spent on campus in the classroom.  These types of courses are called hybrids and can be a perfect balance between battling for parking and doing work in your pajamas.

I am unashamedly lacking in mathematics and science abilities, so I was lucky when I took a biology hybrid that I found such a dedicated teacher.  Without his tutoring outside of class, I would not have succeeded.  For a person who excels in science, his online hybrid biology class would have been awesome.  For me, I could have used the in-class discussions and therefore learned that there are classes I had best be on campus for.  

While I enjoy online learning, there are a lot of negative aspects that someone considering them should be aware of.

Each instructor is different and the dreaded “tone” comes into play when you are communicating online.  It is often hard to get a feel for the instructor’s personality, which can lead to frustration and confusion.  Likewise, you can assume the teacher has little feel for your personality and may judge you inappropriately.  Situations such as this can make a quarter drag by or even make you want to drop the class altogether.  Online chemistry between students and their instructors can differ greatly from the chemistry they might feel in a classroom setting.

Additionally, even if most instructors use the Catalyst system (some don’t) they all approach it differently.  Each quarter means getting to know a different layout.  Figuring out what teachers expect of you without speaking to them in person can be a challenge; some instructors are very clear, some could benefit from a bit of their own education on how to teach a course online.  Sometimes learning a new layout means missing an assignment which your instructor may or may not let you make up.

Some aspects of online courses can be downright dumbfounding.

Many teachers require online group assignments which has to be one of the more asinine concepts I have ever endured.  While I do see value in finding a way to communicate and culminate information online with others, it is incredibly difficult, especially when considering that most people taking online classes have varied schedules and are likely hard to contact.  Some may even be out of state!

In the end, online success really depends on what type of person you are and where you excel.  Pick your courses wisely and remember that more than likely you will be putting in the same amount of work.

For some (like myself), online courses are a necessity and I am incredibly grateful they are available – even with a lot of frustration that comes with them. For others, they may be too difficult in terms of discipline and organization of time.  You’ll never know until you try!