Band 5+: Some universities now offer their courses on the Internet so that people can study online. Is this a positive or negative development? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.

There has been much controversy about whether virtual courses offered by some universities bring more benefits or drawbacks to students. Despite its inherent advantages, this essay argues that the downsides are stronger as these following reasons

One of the drawbacks I firmly maintain of the offerings of studying virtually from some universities is the difficulties in interacting with individuals, such as between professors and classmates. In my point of view, most courses on the Internet are in the form of videos, therefore, there is little connection and collaboration. Although interactive simulations and collaborative online tools can facilitate communication and interactions, there is no sureness that all universities can break these technology barriers. For instance, should students have questions or want to explore the topic deeply, they are unable to receive the immediate response because of the lack of face – to – face interaction, especially in some fields of study such as laboratory sciences or trades which may require real-life learning. As a matter of fact, students might not fully acknowledge their educational institutions’ curricula, lately leading to poorer academic performances.

Admittedly, besides the disadvantages, one of the benefits of Internet-based studying syllabi when considering both individuals inside and outside universities is the ability of providing convenience and flexibility of studying. In regards of students outside universities, they are easily accessible to high-quality knowledge in particular field of study, therefore, enriching the overall courses’ comprehension. Additionally, as providing the free demo of curricula for this majority to experience, universities can take the advantage from this as commercial tools in order to offer a great amount of educatees to apply to their institutions

In conclusion, in spite of the benefits, I believe that the downsides of the studying courses offerings from universities are more significant and noticeable because of the lack of interaction between individuals