Distance Learning

In spite of the convenience and the cost-effectiveness of Internet education, there are both advantages and disadvantages in the utilization of Internet-based education. The focus of this paper is to compare the pros and cons of virtual classroom and traditional classrooms in the classroom settings, as it affect the activity of classroom discussions. Critics of Internet learning have particularly highlighted inadequacy of the lack of face-to-face contact of virtual classrooms, in comparison with traditional classrooms (Aase, 2000). Yet proponents of virtual classrooms have illuminated the possible advantages of the lack of face-to-face contact in the online setting (Ellis & Longmire, 1999; Kok & Brown, 1998).

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nts may be more willing and bold in stating their opinions and ideas. Students can also enjoy the openness of online discussions of their peers from all parts of the country (Carnevale, Oaks, & Ostrov, 1998). Furthermore, virtual classroom discussions can eliminate barriers that divide people based on their race, age and general physical appearance (Kok & Brown, 1998). Virtual classroom discussions are also effective in encouraging introverted and self-conscious students to express themselves (Ellis & Longmire, 1999). In traditional classrooms, extroverted students who are uninhibited about expressing themselves tend to dominate traditional classroom discussions. Introverted students who are too shy or self-conscious to participate in the classroom discussions are unable to have the opportunity to assert themselves. In contrast, in a virtual classroom, both extroverted and introverted students will be able to discuss ideas on an equal playing field (The Illinois Online Network [ION], 2000). Carnevale et al. (1998) noted that the virtual classroom provides an ideal setting for classroom discussions because all students participate in the discussion and take an equal responsibility in contributing to the discussion, without
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Some common words found in the essay are:
Network ION, Kok Brown, Ellis Longmire, Retrieved November, Mandviwalla Liu, Critics Internet, Oaks Ostrov, High-end Internet, Department Study, Alliance Web, classroom discussions, retrieved november, 15 2004, november 15, retrieved november 15, november 15 2004, virtual classrooms, virtual classroom, distance education, traditional classrooms, kok brown 1998, brown 1998, non-verbal cues, ellis longmire 1999, virtual classroom discussions,
Approximate Word count = 1243
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page)

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