Rhetorical Analysis - Essay Example

Summary of the Article Carr in his article offers an interesting look on the recent growth of online courses. He alleges that with the increased growth of online automation and analyzing algorithms, the MOOCs have become quite effective (36). The author meticulously describes the transitions that have taken place from the traditional means in which classes were undertaken to the new concept of the MOOCs. Additionally, he talks in length about ways in which the computers have helped in customizing the students’ learning experience.

However, he points out to some of the challenges that are facing the MOOCs, alleging that, “of the 160,000 people who enrolled in Norvig and Thrun’s AI class, only about 14 percent ended up completing it” (Carr 40). In that case, the high dropout reveals the challenges that emanates from keeping online students motivated and attentive. One of the major implications that the author fails to address in regard to the increase of technology and MOOCs is the effect that the lack of professors would have on education and the field of research.

If the technology ends up pushing the professors out of the classrooms, then it would be necessary for the author to focus on telling readers where that places the state of research. Nevertheless, he clearly explains on the reason why most people prefer online classes to classroom college education, asserting that people are dissatisfied with college education because it is time consuming and expensive. He confirms, “the average price tag for a bachelor’s degree has shot up to more than $ 100,000” (Carr, 34).

Another reason behind the rise of MOOCs that is well argued out is that despite the rise in the cost of higher education, its quality has dropped. Generally, the pros and cons of MOOCs have been well argued and Carr looks as to be spot on in his scrutiny of the future of the universities. Rhetoric Analysis In Carr’s article, he uses a descriptive tone to appeal to readers in addressing the issue of technology and its pros and cons. Through his descriptions, he manages to paint a picture of slowly diminishing universities, owing to the rise of MOOCs.

For instance, he creates imagery of a population that is slowly moving towards online classes, following the high expenses and low quality education. On the same note, he uses contrast to create a tone of disapproval among few people who still think that online classes tend to pose more challenges. For instance, he asserts, “but not everyone is enthusiastic. The online classes, some educators fear, will at best prove a distraction to college administrators…” (Carr 34). Carr commences the article with historical facts, describing how technology has advanced over the years and has had an impact on higher education.

This technique helps in establishing the tone of the article as one that is formal; hence, drawing the reader’s interest because of the credibility that comes with historical facts. Additionally, the author uses comparative and contrasting techniques to give an overview on what education was like before and how it has changed with the revolution of technology. For example, the author compares correspondence courses to traditional on campus lessons, arguing that they were both beneficial to students though