Online Courses
Online courses are becoming more prevalent as an additional learning option. Online
instruction can incorporate a broader range of information, integrating course content
with the informational resources of the web. Students can interact and work together
in ways that are not possible or practical in face-to-face education (Collison, Elbaum,
Haavind, & Tinker, 2000). These courses usually serve the more advanced students,
who are able to undertake independent work as well as navigate the web. The
conceptual basis is constructivist. The teacher is more of a facilitator or mentor.
Online courses offer greater flexibility of time and place, enhance motivation, allow
personal choice of texts, and individual student progress. At the same time, online
courses provide varied opportunities for the use of English and develop computer
skills. However, online courses are very demanding for teachers, and they require
self-discipline and responsibility on the part of the student. Additionally, technical
problems and inadequate access to computers may impede student progress.