Compare or contrast your experience in taking an online course or courses versus that of a traditional course - Essay Example

y engaged in the learning process, acquainting them with knowledge and techniques that will assist them in becoming more productive in their futures and providing them with skills they will utilize throughout their lives. With the advent of the internet and the development of online environments, the question of learning has become even more complicated as online schools are developed. In attempting to determine whether the online environment can provide one with the same or better learning outcomes as the traditional ‘brick and mortar’ environment, it is helpful to compare the experience of the traditional classroom with that of the online environment as it applies to my own personal learning styles.

My personal learning experience has taught me that there are no hard and fast theories that can accurately describe my preferred learning style or what will work best for my learning at any particular time. This concept is supported in David Kolb’s classification of four learning styles, of which I fit into two rather nicely (divergers and accommodators), yet know that I also occasionally dip into other styles as well (114). An open environment in which discussions can be held without concern of offending and where ideas can be explored through a variety of means and methods is usually what helps me to learn best.

The reason I believe this is so is because, depending upon my mood for the day, one means of engaging my attention will work while another that has worked in the past may not. This is not unusual as Boradbent indicates, “learning styles are not cast in concrete. Learners are not always hooked on one style” (2002: 115). Instead, I agree with Mel Silberman (cited in Boradbent, 2002: 115) who indicates that an effective learning environment for a variety of learning styles is one that combines visual, auditory and kinesthetic activities within the instructive curriculum.

Thus, for me, any good learning experience will involve this type of