My Experience with the Opinion Editorial

Well, I must say, that was quite an experience. I think I struggled the most with constructing a solid, specific argument. In the end, it still seemed to be pretty vague. That is something that I would definitely like to improve. I also hope to improve the way that I make a call to action. In my rough draft, it just ended. One could read it and then ask, "What's the point? What do I do with this now?" I needed to think of some kind of invitation to the reader. This taught me how little power there is in a piece of writing that only informs. Raising awareness is not enough. I never knew that before, and it makes a lot more sense to me now. That's something I will need to remember in further assignments and works of writing.
I really enjoyed thinking of experiences and arguments to make to defend my topic. It was fun to research certain statistics. I think working on this opinion editorial really taught me more about online degree programs. Not only that, but it taught me how to make concrete arguments. It can't be vague! It must be very specific and you must have a plan of action. I enjoyed learning about that during this writing process.

Here it is! My Opinion Editorial--

Empowering Students Everywhere to Change the World

Nelson Mandela boldly declares, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world ("Education for All (EFA)").” Who wouldn’t want a better world? In that case, if we want it to change and improve, we need more people to become educated. It makes much more sense, then, that we give more people the ability to obtain a formal education and receive a degree of their choosing. The problem is that this is not always possible. This world has become an increasingly demanding and difficult place to live. Many lack the time and ability to dash back and forth from work and family to classes and exams. Can I even mention how impossible it is to complete homework in this type of situation? For many, this type of lifestyle is overwhelming. There must be some sort of alternative option available.

That’s where online classes come to the rescue! Some universities are even offering degree programs online. These are not just programs that offer some college credit; rather, they are programs that offer college degrees.  Although they are very beneficial, there are too few. They are often misunderstood and not well supported. Courses are offered, but not enough for students to earn complete degrees. Even our very own BYU has room to improve in terms of these online programs since it doesn’t offer degrees in all fields of study. This must change. These online degree programs need to be better understood, created, and more readily available to the public. Why? It is because they are simple and much more convenient. There is no dashing to and from a campus with these programs. Everything needed is there at home on a computer. This is the only difference between online courses and classes on a campus. Students can benefit just as much from online coursework as they can from traditional campus schooling. Thus, there is really no need to fear online degree programs and they should be more accessible to the public.

To some, there is still a cause for concern. There are many educators who believe otherwise, arguing that complete online programs make it so that students don’t learn how to collaborate with others as they would in a traditional program offered on a university campus. I, however, beg to differ.

I have had my fair share of college courses online. A graphic design class that I took during my first year of college required that I post my projects online and then visit a certain webpage once a week to chat with the instructor as well as with the other students. We vocally critiqued the work of each other, shared thoughts and ideas in terms of improvement, and received feedback from the instructor. We all lived in completely different areas across the United States, yet we were brought together through an online course by collaborating and constantly communicating. I was amazed how much I learned from that experience about working with others as well as graphic design itself even though the course was online. I have no doubt that other programs can do the same for others as they did for me.   

Although students may have a wholesome collaborative experience through complete degree programs online, many are very skeptical of academic honesty. If there are more of these programs, it makes sense that there will be cheating. This may be true, but online programs actually share the same problem as all colleges, including prestigious universities. David L. Jaff, MS, of Stanford stated that between 75 and 98 percent of college students admitted to cheating in high school (Jaff). There was even an incident in which dozens of Harvard students were caught cheating on an exam (Pérez Peña, 2013). In that case, why point fingers at only online courses? Cheating takes place on all college campuses. It isn’t solely an issue online. When this is understood, the concept of online degree programs appears much less questionable and much more appealing to those desiring to offer them. 

Some may even dare to accuse students taking courses online of being “lazy.” This is often false as well as a dangerous assumption, especially in the situation of my friend, Daina. She is a good friend of mine who was recently diagnosed with Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, also known as POTS. Because of this disease, she is plagued with constant and extreme stomach pain, an abnormally rapid heartbeat, circulatory complications, and persistent fatigue. She is unable to stand for long periods of time and walking is often difficult for her. She is only twenty-one years old and wants to attend culinary school. Unfortunately, this disease has confined her to her home and attending classes is not possible. What would she do without online courses? She is currently taking these classes, which help her to keep her mind sharp and even distract her from her constant discomfort. She doesn’t know for sure how long she will suffer this way, but thanks to online degree programs, she could still be able to earn a degree even as sick as she is. The trick is presenting an entire program for her to earn that degree and not simply to take classes in order to avoid boredom.

She is not the exception either. Another one of my friends was also confined to her bed because she suffered from stomach paralysis. Although she was always in bed, she was still able to earn her high school degree through online programs. She was able to achieve this dream before she passed away only a few months later. How devastating would it have been to be kept from achieving such a dream simply from being too sick to attend classes? Many share these same circumstances, and it is only fair that they too be given a chance to change the world and reach their dreams through their education. It is possible through online school programs. However, it cannot happen if these programs are not accepted by our society and made publically available.  

In essence, preparation for receiving a degree online is not much different than receiving one on a college campus. They enable students from difficult situations to access the schooling necessary to obtain a degree. They also present a good, collaborative environment. The only difference is that these classes take place within the walls of one’s own home. They give many who want to be at school, especially those who are ill, the chance to still make their dreams a reality.  Let us give to as many as possible the opportunity to achieve their goals and earn a degree. There may be some of these programs, but there are not nearly enough. They that do exist are not supported enough by the public or by educators. They are therefore not nearly as effective as they could be.

It is time for us to come together as students and fight for these programs. Even BYU has limits to its online program by only offering degrees in some areas, but not all. We must create programs for more areas of study and make them accessible to more potential students. Let us do our own research and learn of the benefits that come from these programs. Once understood, we must begin more of these programs. We cannot do this without the support of our university’s administration and staff. Let us go directly to the schoolboard as well as to the professors with this plan to improve. We have the desire, and they have the power to make it a reality. Joining together as faculty and students will provide us with all of the tools necessary to create, enhance, and make available these online degree programs for everyone. By doing so, we are better able to accomplish as Nelson Mandela said and help change the world.

Works Cited

"Education for All (EFA)." Resources for Speakers on Global Issues. United Nations Resources. Web. 29 Jan. 2016. <http://www.un.org/en/globalissues/briefingpapers/efa/quotes.shtml>. 

Jaffe, David L. "Academic Cheating Fact Sheet." Perspectives in Assistive Technology. Web. 26 Jan. 2016. <https://web.stanford.edu/class/engr110/cheating.html>

Pérez Peña, Richard. "Students Accused of Cheating Return Awkwardly to a Changed Harvard." The New York Times [New York] 17 Sept. 2013: A12. The New York Times. 16 Sept. 2013. Web. 26 Jan. 2016. <http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/17/education/students-accused-of-cheating-return-awkwardly-to-a-changed-harvard.html>. 

Here's the Rough Draft...

The more I think about this, the more passionate I feel about it!

Since practically the very moment that we are born, the concept of getting an education is drilled into our minds. Hearing this as children is often boring and pointless. However, as we grow, we understand more and more the need to further our educations. Why? Because, as Nelson Mandela boldly declares, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Who wouldn’t want a better world? In that case, if we want this world to change, we need more people to become educated. Does it not make more sense, then, that we give more people the ability to obtain a formal education and receive a degree of their choosing?

The problem is that this is not always possible. This world has become an increasingly demanding and difficult place to live. Many lack the time and ability to dash back and forth from work and family to classes and exams. Can I even mention how impossible it is to complete homework in this type of situation? For many, this type of lifestyle is overwhelming. They have no choice but to give up.

That’s where online classes come to the rescue! Some universities are even offering degree programs online. With these programs, there’s no dashing to and from a campus. Everything needed is there at home on a computer. It’s simple and much more convenient! Not only that, but online courses also allow students of whatever background to learn more about the use of technology, which is much needed in this day and age.

To some, this is a cause for concern. Although I find it to be an excellent idea, there are many educators who believe otherwise, arguing that complete online programs make it so that students don’t learn how to collaborate with others as one would in a traditional program offered on a university campus. I, however, beg to differ.

I have had my fair share of college courses online. A graphic design class that I took during my first year of college required that I post my projects online and then go on a certain webpage once a week to chat with the instructor as well as with the other students. We vocally critiqued the work of each other, shared thoughts and ideas in terms of improvement, and received feedback from the instructor. Although we all lived in completely different places across the United States, we were brought together through an online course through collaborating and constantly communicating. I was amazed how much I learned from that experience about working with others as well as graphic design itself even though the course was online. I have no doubt that other programs can do the same for others as they did for me.   

Although students may have a wholesome collaborative experience through complete degree programs online, many are very skeptical of academic honesty. This may be true, but online programs actually share the same problem as all colleges, including prestigious universities. David L. Jaff, MS, of Stanford stated that between 75 and 98 percent of college students admitted to cheating in high school (Jaff). There was even an incident in which dozens of Harvard students were caught cheating on an exam (Pérez Peña, 2013). In that case, why point fingers at only online courses? Cheating happens on all college campuses. It isn’t solely an issue online.

Some may even dare to accuse students of online programs of being “lazy.” Try telling that to my friend, Daina! She is a good friend of mine who was recently diagnosed with Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, also known as POTS. Because of this disease, she is plagued with constant and extreme stomach pain, an abnormally rapid heartbeat, circulatory complications, and persistent fatigue. She is unable to stand for long periods of time and walking is often difficult for her. She is only twenty-one years old and wants to attend culinary school. Unfortunately, this disease has confined her to her home and attending classes is not possible for her. What would she do without online courses? She is currently taking these classes, which help her to keep her mind sharp and even distract her from her constant discomfort from POTS. She doesn’t know for sure how long she will be this way, but thanks to online degree programs, she could still be able to earn a degree even as sick as she is.

She is not the exception either. Another one of my friends was also confined to her bed because she suffered from stomach paralysis. Although she was always in bed, she was still able to earn her high school degree through online programs. She was able to achieve this dream before she passed away only a few months later. How devastating would it have been to be kept from achieving such a dream simply from being too sick to attend classes? Many others share these circumstances, and it is only fair that they too be given a chance to change the world and reach their dreams through their education. How so? It’s easy – through online school programs.   

In essence, preparation for receiving a degree online is not much different than receiving one on a college campus. They make students who live in more difficult situations much more able to access the work necessary to obtain a degree. They present a good, collaborative environment while teaching them more about technology. The only difference is that these classes take place within the walls of one’s own home. They give many who want to be at school, especially those who are ill, the chance to still make their dreams a reality.  Let us give to as many as possible the opportunity to achieve their goals and earn a degree. By doing so, we are better able to accomplish as Nelson Mandela said and help change the world.

Works Cited

Jaffe, David L. "Academic Cheating Fact Sheet." Perspectives in Assistive Technology. Web. 26 Jan. 2016. <https://web.stanford.edu/class/engr110/cheating.html>

Pérez Peña, Richard. "Students Accused of Cheating Return Awkwardly to a Changed Harvard." The New York Times [New York] 17 Sept. 2013: A12. The New York Times. 16 Sept. 2013. Web. 26 Jan. 2016. <http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/17/education/students-accused-of-cheating-return-awkwardly-to-a-changed-harvard.html>. 

Obtain a Degree Online? I Think So!

As technology has improved tremendously over the years, many institutions, especially universities have increased their technology use. Many college courses rely heavily on the use of online systems and other computer programs. There are even entire courses taught online. Some universities are even considered offering complete degree programs entirely online.

Although I find this to be an excellent idea, there are many educators who believe otherwise. They argue that complete online programs make it so that students don’t learn how to collaborate with others as one would in a traditional program offered on a university campus. They are also skeptical of academic honesty.

I’m aware of these concerns, but I am also aware of the benefits of these programs online. My purpose in writing is to counter cons as well as demonstrate pros of providing students with online degree programs. Many believe that online programs do not provide students with the same collaborative environment as those on college campuses. I have had experiences with online courses, and I argue that they still do provide this environment. For those who argue that cheating is an issue, I indicate to statistics showing how universities all across the country deal with cheating, including prestigious universities such as Harvard. It isn’t solely an issue online.  The pros that I plan to present include flexibility and the opportunity provided to those who are unable to attend on-campus courses. I also believe that online courses allow students to learn more about the use of technology, which is much needed in this day and age. 

A Brainstorm for an Opinion Editorial

Is this perfect? Heavens, no! Don't panic - it's just a brainstorm at this point. I am excited to see where it goes, though...

               Since practically the very moment that we are born, the concept of getting an education is drilled into our minds. Hearing this as children is often boring and pointless. However, as we grow, we understand more and more the need to further our educations. Why? Because, as Nelson Mandela boldly declares, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Who wouldn’t want a better world? In that case, if we want this world to change, we need more people to become educated. Does it not make more sense, then, that we give more people the ability to obtain a formal education and receive a degree of their choosing?

                The problem is that this is not always possible. This world has become an increasingly demanding and difficult place to live. Many lack the time and ability to dash back and forth from work and family to classes and to complete homework assignments. To many, this is overwhelming and they are forced to give up.

That’s where online classes come to the rescue! Some universities are even offering degree programs online. To some, this is a cause for concern. Who is to say that online students are serious about their work? Is it legitimate? Is it too much of an easy way out?

I, for one, completely support the idea of online degree programs. Let me answer this with another question; what students are honestly taking these classes? I highly doubt that any slacker looking for easy As is going to be found taking an online course. I have taken them myself, and I have found that they are not always easy. 

I say, "Hello!"

Well, hello everyone!

My name is Lauren Ridge, and I suppose you could say that I'm a small-town girl living in a BYU world. I grew up in Springville, Utah, before finally graduating and leaving to attend BYU Idaho. I completed two semesters there before going on a mission to Aguascalientes, Mexico. Needless to say, Mexico now has a very special place in my heart. It was hard to leave, but now I'm excited to be here at BYU! I haven't declared a major yet, but I'm hoping to do so in the near future... when I decide what to do, that is. Until then, I'm eager to learn a lot and enjoy the ride!

Let's see... many professors have asked in their classes for students to share something interesting about themselves, so I suppose I can do that for you too! I currently work for a Mexican vanilla company in Springville and I love chocolate almost as much as being with friends or family. That's pretty much me! Life is great, especially when it includes chocolate. Now, I look forward to meeting you all and enjoying this great winter semester!