Thus far, I think I like the traditional class style more than online learning. I like how I can work on my assignments online when it is convienent for me; however, that usually means I work on them after I get all of my other homework done, and then I often find myself running out of time to do assignments for this class. I do well under pressure, so having an actual class period helps me to get my homework done by that deadline; versus knowing I have all week to work on a project. I really like the discussions we have in the online forum. I think they get more in depth because everyone has to participate in them. In traditional classes, it is usually the same students answering questions and adding to the discussions. This online style allows everyone to participate and we get a lot more out of the discussions that way. I miss having the real student-to-student interaction that you get in an in-class setting. In this online course, I have failed to get to know anyone in the course with me. This is unfortunate. Although their pictures are placed next to their online posts, I don’t feel like I actually know any of them. I do think it helps to have “The Lounge,” but when I log onto my discussion board, I’m usually just trying to get done with my homework, and I don’t have the time to chit-chat online. However, if I were in-class I would automatically talk with my classmates as we waited for class to start. Overall, the online course that has been developed for ED 205 has done a great job of simulating a traditional classroom, but there are just some things that arn’t the same through computer networking.
My other classes are of traditional nature, but a few of them to do use an online discussion board. Their method hasn’t proven to be as affective as the method we use in ED 205. This is because each student is only required to post one statement. As a result, the rest of the students don’t read their classmates’ responses, and therefore, don’t think much beyond their own statements. My other classes could deffinitely improve their online discussion boards if they simply made each student make two statements. This way they would have to read other’s thoughts, and think outside of the box.
I have never taken an online course previously to this one. I’ve enjoyed my experience, but I don’t think I would choose to take another online course over a traditional one if I had the option. I feel I’ve learned just as much information through the online course, but I just do a better job of studying and doing homework when I have a teacher to confront in a classroom. I miss the student-to-student interaction as well. The online class has a lot to offer, but I think it benefits those who like learning and working more individually.

Five specific applications I believe every student should learn include:

1. Word Processing:
This application is commonly used during and after the school years. Many jobs recuire that their employees know how to work a basic word program. It provides a neat, organized, and professional appearance to one’s document. It saves time and it also promotes sharing. This application should be introduced, but not relied upon, in the 4th grade. I should not be used as a replacement for paper work, but it should act as a supplemental tool to encourage writing and the use of technology.

2. Data Bases:
Data base applications are important because they offer a new way to gather information. It saves time because students are able to narrow down their search criteria to find exactly what they are looking for. It reduces data redundancy and is easily accessable through the internet. This application is used heavily in college so students should be introduced to it before graduation; perferably in the 9th grade when students begin to complete research projects and have had previous exposure to the internet.

3. Presentation Software
Presentation Software is often used throughout and after schooling. It assists in presentation preperation, reports and projects. It provides a neat appearance and saves time. This application should be introduced in 8th grade, when students take responsibility for presenting material to their class.

4. Multimedia Authoring Software
This program should be introduced in the 8th grade. It can be used in replace of written reports or to present projects. This application is important because it assists in student presentations and technology integration.

5. Graphical Organizers
This application is important because it helps students to visually organize information, outline material, and plan projects. This can be introduced at a younger age, perhaps in the 3rd grade. It can assist in helping the students to organize material and subject content.