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Topic: Education

Essay Question:

Some universities offer online courses as an alternative to classes delivered on campus. Do you think this is a positive or negative development?

Model Essay 1 (302 words):

Due to advancements in internet technology, many universities are now making distance learning courses available for students. In my opinion, while this has several disadvantages, I believe that it is an overall positive trend.

On the one hand, there seem to be potential drawbacks to e-learning. One noticeable disadvantage is that web-based learning is only suitable for theoretical courses. Other subjects that require laboratory work or hands-on activities, especially science courses, cannot be effectively taught via online platforms. Although there are videos to show how these experiments can be done, the interaction is different and may even alter the learning experience for students. Another disadvantage is that this medium has too many distractions. Students may not be able to fully concentrate on their classes since they are easily tempted to browse unnecessary websites. As a result, many students are unable to retain the information they learn from their classes.

On the other hand, it cannot be denied that online education provides many advantages for students. Firstly, distance learning offers students, from many disciplines, the convenience to study whenever and wherever they want. They can attend classes, finish assignments, and take tests in the comforts of their home. Those who live far away from their school do not have to worry about getting up early or commuting for long hours. Secondly, e-learning is more economical. People do not have to spend money on allowances or transportation expenses. Additionally, this benefits people who cannot get access to their desired courses without having to travel to a different city, which could be expensive. Lastly, online learning encourages self-discipline. As most online courses are self-paced, this mode of learning helps students to increase their self-discipline and develop self-motivation skills.

To conclude, I think e-learning is generally a positive development as its numerous benefits exceed the disadvantages.

Essay Type:

Discussion/Two-sided Essay

Essay Structure:

introduction – background statement and thesis statement

body paragraph 1 – general idea + specific idea (explanation/example) [side1]

body paragraph 2 – general idea + specific idea (explanation/example) [side2]

conclusion – restated opinion and general idea

Key Ideas:

opinion – online courses is a positive development, although it has negative effects, its positive effects still outweigh the negative effects

supporting idea 1 –online classes has disadvantages; it limits the learning experiences of the students especially in subjects that needs application of acquired knowledge; and social media platforms can also be distracting

supporting idea 2 – online classes has advantages; it is convenient as people can study whenever and wherever they want; it is economical, it helps save money because there would be no need to rent or travel; it also helps students increase their self-discipline

Useful Vocabulary:

§ distance learning - a way of studying in which you do not attend a school, college, or university, but study from where you live, usually being taught and given work to do over the internet

§ e-learning - learning done by studying at home using computers and courses provided on the internet

§ theoretical - concerned with or involving the theory of a subject or area of study rather than its practical application

§ hands-on - involving or offering active participation rather than theory

§ alter - to change something, usually slightly, or to cause the characteristics of something to change

§ retain - keep in one's memory

§ discipline - a branch of knowledge, typically one studied in higher education

§ economical - not using a lot of money

§ self-paced - (of an educational system, course, etc.) done or designed to be accomplished at the student's own speed

§ self-motivation - ability to do what needs to be done, without influence from other people or situations

Model Essay 2 (295 words):

Nowadays, universities are beginning to transition many of their courses to online learning. While this trend brings with it many conveniences, I believe that it still cannot replace traditional classrooms.

Admittedly, e-learning has several benefits for the students. One big advantage is the increase in flexibility. Unlike face-to-face classes where there are fixed periods, distance learning students can study at their own time and pace. For this reason, online education is popular among students with other commitments, such as work or family. Another advantage is the ease of access. All students need is a computer with stable internet access, and they can already download all their class materials. Moreover, assignments and other projects are sent via email while classes are done through video calls via Skype or Zoom. Hence, students do not have to worry about commuting to school or printing their homework since everything is done online.

However, it cannot be denied that online education comes with several drawbacks. Firstly, the lack of social interaction can negatively affect students. This is especially relevant for undergraduate students who should be making friends and having a great time. Unfortunately, the online platform does not provide students the opportunity to interact with others and build connections. Secondly, since e-learning is still a fairly new concept, there are only a few courses being offered in universities. Furthermore, courses requiring hands-on experience, which are unsuited to online education, cannot even be included. Finally, many firms and institutions still do not recognize online learning. When hiring employees, companies would choose a candidate who studied at a conventional university over one who studied online.

In conclusion, due to the lack of interaction, the fewer number of courses, and the poor reputation of online education, I believe that it is a negative development.

Essay Type:

Discussion/Two-sided Essay

Essay Structure:

introduction – background statement and thesis statement

body paragraph 1 – general idea + specific idea (explanation/example) [side1]

body paragraph 2 – general idea + specific idea (explanation/example) [side2]

conclusion – restated opinion and general idea

Key Ideas:

opinion – many universities are transitioning to online learning; although this trend has several advantages, I think it has more disadvantages

supporting idea 1 – one advantage of online learning is the flexible schedule; compared to face-to-face classes, students can study whenever and wherever they want; another is the ease of access; students only need a computer with stable internet connection to study, submit homework and take tests

supporting idea 2 – online classes has more disadvantages: firstly, the lack of social interaction which can negatively affect students, especially for undergraduate students; secondly, there are only a few courses being offered in universities; lastly, many firms and institutions still do not recognize online learning

Useful Vocabulary:

§ transition - undergo or cause to undergo a process or period of transition

§ e-learning - learning done by studying at home using computers and courses provided on the internet

§ flexibility - the ability to be easily modified

§ fixed - pre determined and not subject to or able to be changed

§ commitment - a pledge or undertaking

§ interaction - communication or direct involvement with someone or something

§ relevant - closely connected or appropriate to what is being done or considered

§ connection - people with whom one has social or professional contact or to whom one is related, especially those with influence and able to offer one help

§ fairly - to quite a high degree

§ hands-on - involving or offering active participation rather than theory