What she essentially says in the video is that now is the time for online learning. She discusses how the United States spends more money on education than all other countries except for one; however, we still have huge problems. We have teacher shortages, unqualified teachers, and more. So, what she suggests is offering online classes. Training teachers is also a big part of this plan, according to Patrick. Next, she talks about how online learning allows students and teachers to use time differently. For example, it gives both students and teachers more flexibility with their time. Students have to learn to be more responsible, have better time management, and more. She also states that, "...we are really starting to see that students taking online courses are more engaged...and are having much higher rates of success, in terms of not just finishing the courses but how well they learn and learning how to learn differently in this new modern age."
I agree with what Susan Patrick is saying in this video. I also think teachers should take a stand to help students learn to the best of their ability. In this day and age, technology is often the very key to better learning. Online classes can be very good for many students. Students can go at their own pace and have the opportunity for much more. One specific example Susan used that I enjoyed was the Georgia statistic. She talked about how, out of 400 high schools in Georgia, there were only 89 qualified physics teachers in the state. That one example is enough proof for me to believe that the United States needs a new way to allow all students a better learning experience. Online learning can do just that. As Ms. Patrick argued and discussed, online learning and the use of technology in a technology based generation is crucial in so many ways. I strongly believe that if the opportunities and resources are available, then we should never hold students back from this valuable resource.
Online learning, as Susan Patrick says, is a smart solution.
Here is the video, in case you want to watch it for yourself:
Keaton, I agree with you that technology can be a key to better learning. The idea of online classes is interesting. I think it could definitely work better for many students, and give them a different approach other than the typical lecture style that most students are accustomed to today. I like the idea to that the schools can provide the students with more of a variety of classes by offering the online option. This would be great for students to discover what areas they are good at and interested in, which could help them to pick a career field in the future.
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Ps. I am very impressed with your blog, it is very well put together!
I like this topic! I think it is true that students taking online courses are more engaged to a certain extent. That is not to say that regular courses are not engaging. However I can say that I have taken both types, and I think I am more engaged in my online classes because if you're not then you will get left behind and be confused. Online classes are sometimes better in my opinion because you really have to apply yourself to do well which in lots of cases means the student will succeed. I think in today's digital society online classes are becoming the norm. I really like your last statement, "I strongly believe that if the opportunities and resources are available, then we should never hold students back from this valuable resource." This says it all, students have lots of valuable resources at their disposal, and these resources should most definitely be taken advantage of.
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