The same is true for students. Writing can allow them to search for what it is that they want to say. Once they find it, they can revise and clarify their own perspectives. Students learn through this process. So, the amount of writing students have to do in an online course is more than a substitute for speaking.
Writing is a unique activity that produces student learning.
Back to Top Conclusions We are not claiming that online education will solve all of the problems of teaching in a higher education environment. As we've suggested, an online course can be designed and taught poorly. As we've also suggested, online courses are simply one alternative delivery format that might meet the needs of some students and professors. Our real purpose here is to offer a new perspective from which to consider the need for online courses and to help clear up misconceptions that you may have about the online environment. As a result of this article, we are hoping for renewed dialogue among faculty about the merits and problems with online courses.