Online classes provide new opportunities
WHS is now offering online courses for students to take throughout the year.
The new program offers mixed reactions for those who partake in it.
Bryan Ehrlinspiel, online instructor of American Popular Culture and Social Studies Dept. member, commends online education.
“For high school students in 2015, online learning is a reality. I highly recommend all college bound students take at least one online class while in high school because a lot of post-secondary education will take place online,” Ehrlinspiel said.
Aiche N’Diaye (12) took the American Pop Culture course this year.
“Personally, I think that the online classes were a good idea because it gave a wider array of class options. But, they really put a lot of stress on the students because it is really independent and oftentimes causes procrastination to develop because of simply forgetting the assignment.”
Philip Klein, online instructor of Revolutionary History and Social Studies Dept. member, thinks online learning is a great teaching tool.
“But, it is only a tool. It is a new way of doing what teachers have always done,” Klein said.
According to Klein, online education provides diverse ways to learn self-driven learning and encourages communication. However, Klein also believes there are problems involving technology and inexperience with online courses.
Hannah Otto (12) took Klein’s course this year.
“I really enjoyed working at my own pace and without the restraints of a classroom and rigid schedules. Doing online classes creates a freer schedule, but also teaches students time management. The only setback is not having readily available students and/or teachers to collaborate with and find answers. Independence is achieved but collaboration is put by the wayside,” Otto said.
Steve Young, online instructor of Health, appreciates the advancements and capabilities of the district that allow online education.
“In regard to WCS, we are extremely fortunate to have access to all of the computers, laptops and the rest of the technology we have. Wooster has invested a great deal into online learning and preparing their students for college. Overall, I think it could be beneficial to invest in online learning to better prepare students for the next step in their education; I still feel the regular classroom setting and interaction is extremely important and beneficial,” Young said.
There are still improvements to be made in the future use of online education in the WCSD.
