That's A Wrap For Week 2

Goodbye Week 2, Hello Week 3!

From http://www.wmich.edu/registrar/calendars/

Since beginning the Shorter Online Program I've noticed some major differences between the online classes and traditional classes. Here are some of the advantages for me.

1. Online classes are more flexible. Instead of being required to meet on campus at a certain room at a certain time, I'm able to study and complete assignments day or night, as long as they are turned in by the deadline.
2. Online classes allow me to plan ahead. If I know I'll be having a busy weekend, I can work extra hard during the week to get ahead. Or I can plan accordingly to work on-the-go if I'm traveling to my hometown to visit family.
3. Online sessions I and II, I think it's so wonderful how the classes are covered in a shorter time span. I'd rather focus on two classes for a shorter period of time, than have four or more classes going at once over the course of an entire semester.
4. Online classes seem to foster more thoughtful replies between students. Sometimes it's hard to know what to say to other people on the spot. With online classes, it gives you time to think of a genuine, helpful response.
5. So far, I haven't had any problems getting in contact with my professors. All of my emails have been replied to in a quick turn-around. So I'm not worried about getting help when I need it.

And, here are some of the disadvantages. But luckily there's only a few of them.

1. Not getting to meet the other students and professors in-person. With online classes sometimes a person's personality doesn't show through as well as it would with a face-to-face meeting.
2. Living so far away from campus, it'll be harder to be a part of campus life and network with other students. Since there's no online student clubs/forums that's ruled out. However, I do hope to make it to a football game or play while I'm visiting family in the west Georgia area.
3. Also, living so far away from the campus bookstore, I'm going to have to order books and merchandise online, paying the extra shipping costs each semester.

But I honestly feel that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.