After reading "Learning in Second Life: Virtual Education" and "Augmented Reality vs. Virtual Reality: Which one is More Real?", and considering the fact that I'm a college student who is majoring in Business, let's just say I have mixed feelings about virtual education.
I am aware that many universities embrace online courses and web-based systems like Blackboard to increase revenue while promoting distance learning. But take it a step further...try to visualize virtual education. Don't get me wrong, from an educational and business viewpoint, I thing its a great idea. For instance, the recent blizzards and snowstorms we experienced this winter; with virtual education professors would not have to worry about rescheduling class materials or sessions.
But from a student's point of view or my opinion, I would hate virtual education. If I'm at home, I want to relax and spend time with my family or friends and not have to worry about school. I want to sleep in late, play in the snow or do whatever it is that I felt like doing at the time. Again, don't get me wrong here because I value online classes. At least if or when I registered for the class I knew it was going to be virtual. But if I had to make a conscious decision about registering for a traditional or virtual class....guess which one I'm picking?
It is difficult to draw the line between work and play as it requires a lot of discipline. Not everything can be experienced online. Individuals can only get a sense rather than the real feel. Some examples include feeling the heat from an exploding volcano and disecting insects and animals.
ReplyDeleteI have took an online class via blackboard this summer and it was a good experience but I agree with you and prefer going to class and interacting with others over having discussions on a discussion board on blackboard.
ReplyDeleteI don't think I would be able to take an online class, let alone a virtual one. i would feel to distracted to learn and instead would tweek around the functions offered by Second Life.
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