The transformative impact of advancements in digital technologies is contributing to the dramatic realignment and redesigning of academic work in higher education environments. These changes are playing a crucial role in uplifting the standards of education and broadening access to materials.
Technology has enabled many new providers to enter the field, thus increasing competition on the local and global academic markets. However, the advancements have also generated digital piracy and prompted the introduction of stringent copyright and other intellectual property laws.
Students can now access pre-recorded content, such as lectures online from anywhere. This allows educators to augment the online lectures with face-to-face or online discussions, group exercises and quizzes. Institutions of higher learning can redesign their programs based on learner analytics. This in turn results in the development of effective teaching, learning and creative inquiry formats. Although some sections of the academic field believe that technology is disruptive in the classroom, many have welcomed it with open arms.
Some universities are looking into educational technology with the hope of finding ways of reducing the cost of tuition. Cost reduction works closely with the reinvention of instructional or lecture models in creating a paradigm shift. Cloud computing, mobile apps, 3D printing and game-based learning are some of the technologies being employed on a wider scale. Apps have become vital tools for learning since they provide a convenient way for students to feed their creative inquiry. On the other hand, game based learning offers a great platform for collaboration, problem-solving, critical thinking and communication.
Receiving an online versus an on-campus degree
Online degree programs have transformed the higher education landscape by offering a more convenient and flexible alternative for degree-seeking students. Although traditional degrees have not lost their dominance, perceptions surrounding online variants have changed significantly.
In the past, employers used to consider online degrees and alternative education as inferior to those acquired from brick and mortar institutions. As a result, the line between the two is becoming increasingly blurry and each comes with its own set of pros and cons.
The greatest advantage of alternative education is convenience, which is particularly beneficial to students juggling between work and furthering their education. This eliminates the need to attend lectures for several hours a day.
Online education also provides flexible start and end program dates allowing students to work according to their schedule. Affordability is another key factor since online degrees are cheaper. However, this route demands much greater levels of discipline and self-motivation.
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