IELTS writing (practice)
Universities and colleges are now offering qualifications through distance learning (using the internet) rather than traditional on-site courses. Do you think the advantages of this development outweigh the drawbacks?
With advancements in technology, the internet has opened up new doors and created options that were previously thought (to be) impossible. One of the major areas affected by this change is education. No longer are students restricted to the classical learning structures and studying in brick and mortar schools. This has both merits and drawbacks, and I believe that distance learning now outweighs traditional schooling.
Some people may feel that there are drawbacks to studying online because this kind of teaching method can only provide <s>the</s> academic benefits. For students, life skills such as friendship, teamwork and open-mindedness are also vital to personal growth in a modern world.
Online classes offer obvious advantages such as effective communication, efficient learning and abundant learning materials that allow for the comprehensive academic development of learners. Some high tech approaches have been introduced making it possible for students to take courses as if they were (physically present) in the classroom. Technology makes face to face communication possible for people in different places. For instance, learners can easily and directly share ideas with their classmates and professors via FaceTime and may even make friends. Besides, this type of learning provides flexibility and convenience for them and they are able to access courses from all over the word without the contraints of schedules and location. This is particularly beneficial for students in poor countries as well as for the physical disabled. Moreover, the electronic medium allows access to research material that many students would never have been able to reach without such technological progress.
In conclusion, although there are some possible demerits of remote learning, I would still contend that the benefits clearly outweigh the drawbacks as internet provides a good opportunity for highly skilled and qualified teachers to reach a far wider <s>educational</s> audience.