York Prep Considers the Pros and Cons of Online Classes

NEW YORK, NY, May 24, 2012

It used to be that students obtained an education by attending class and listening to the teacher face-to-face. But now, with the emergence of modern technology, more students are turning to online classes for their education. The New York Times published a story outlining individuals' thoughts on the concept of online classes. York Prep, based in the Manhattan area of New York, understands why students are keen on online classes, but says they do have drawbacks.

In the New York Times story, Tara McLaughlin, explains that more prominent colleges, such as Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, offer online classes to make educational opportunities easier on students. However, the students are missing out on the true overall class experience only found sitting behind a desk with peers.

"As a college student, I feel that at times, class can be dreadful and monotonous, but the benefits of actually being in class are evident in my understanding of the material," said McLaughlin, a sophomore at Fairfield University. "The teacher-student relationship formed in class allows for open discussion, giving the classroom a friendly and engaging ambience."

Ronald Stewart, headmaster at York Prep, understands the importance of a "one-on-one education," something he received at Oxford University in England. However, he said single tutorials with tutors at Oxford are rare nowadays, due to the cost. At Oxford, some tutorials have six students. In America, the college classes are larger, making it hard to establish a bond with teachers at times.

"Given the number of universities, the 'star' professors are sought after by the most famous universities, such as Stanford University and the Ivy League," Stewart said. "They attract them by paying the most. So online classes by these stars will increasingly reduce the cost of taking classes and increase the exposure of great teachers."

Long Island University music instructor Mark Shapiro added, "What online instruction will never replicate is serendipity. So much growth and learning - far more than we account for, I think - happens as a result of the unplanned 'offline' encounters. These are integral to the magic of an on-campus, in-person college education when it is fulfilling its enormous promise."

Stewart agreed that interacting with teachers and asking them questions is different than watching a lecture online. However, for some students, their options are limited.

"If you get into a great university and can afford it, that is the best solution," he said. "But if you cannot, a video of a great professor is an acceptable alternative. Not the real thing, but still education."

ABOUT:

Ronald and Jayme Stewart founded York Prep in New York. The school serves students in grades 6-12. Currently, 340 students are enrolled in York Prep. Today, the school creates its curriculum and course offering based on the students' needs and abilities. To learn more about York Prep, visit www.yorkprep.org.