In what ways do Simon’s parents say his character has changed?

A_______________

B_______________

C_______________

3. Listen to Simon and find six advantages of home schooling Simon mentions

1_____________________

2______________________

3_______________________

4________________________

5_________________________

6_______________________

4. Answer true or false for the following statements.

1. Simon was happy when his parents told him they were going to educate him at home

2. Other children envy Simon when he says he doesn’t go to school

3. Simon’s parents are very religious

5. Tick which of these adjectives you think can be inferred from the passage.

Simon’s parents are

controlling ambitious caring protective selfish

Simon is…

trusting disadvantaged lonely fortunate hard-working

6. Write five sentences about pros and cons studying home.

IV

1. Translate the following word combinations

paced society; the classroom setting ; in-class courses; “brick and mortar” institutions; the surge; savvy; cost effective; the confine, flexibility and convenience, “proctor” sites.

Trends in education

Education has become one of the fastest growing “businesses” in recent years. It seems like there is a new commercial every week for a new online university, technical, or school of business. Online education has become more popular in today’s fast paced society. Online courses allow students to take courses from different states and even from different countries. Some schools offer in-class courses, online courses, or hybrid courses. Hybrid courses are both in-class and online. These courses often have online classes one week and in-class sessions the next week. Some schools offer hybrid programs which include a mix of in-class courses, online courses, and hybrid classes. More Traditional schools or so called “brick and mortar” institutions are offering more online courses in response to the surge of online universities.

The Case for Traditional Education

The traditional college experience consists of attending classes in person on a campus. Younger students who are attending college for the first time could benefit from the traditional learning environment. Younger students may need more guidance and more direct contact with professors and academic advisors. Traditional classes may also be a better fit for students with limited resources and limited computer access. If you’re living on campus, it only makes sense to take classes on campus.

For the more “mature” student, the traditional educational setting in the classroom may be a more comfortable fit. This option may also be better if the student is returning to school for the first time in many years. Although this is not always the case, older students tend to be a little less tech savvy and might prefer a more traditional setting.

Students who value the campus experience may also find the traditional campus atmosphere more desirable than just an online experience. There are more opportunities to engage in student activities such as fraternities/sororities as well as concerts and sporting events that typically occur on campus.

The classroom setting is also the most appropriate setting for technical or trade schools. These schools consist of but are not limited to the following areas of study:

Automobile Mechanic/Technician

Computer Science/ Engineering

Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning Technician (HVAC)

Nursing

The Case for Online Education

Online education, also referred to as distance learning involves taking courses over the internet as opposed to in the classroom setting. Online education has become more popular in recent years. This popularity is largely due to the flexibility and convenience that an online educational experience provides. Online education provides an opportunity to take classes from the convenience of home. In addition, online education provides more flexibility by allowing students to work at their own pace without the confines of a strict class schedule.

Online classes tend to be more beneficial for students who work full-time and have additional family responsibilities. Online course assignments can be completed at work (don’t tell my boss), home, or anywhere you can carry your laptop. This form of learning makes it ideal for students on the go.

In addition to flexibility and convenience, online courses can also be more cost effective. Classes are taken online so there is no need to drive to class. This saves gas as well as additional wear and tear on your vehicle. Each school is different so you may be required to take certain tests in person at “proctor” sites. These sites are approved by the university and work directly with the school to ensure that students are taking tests as instructed (i.e., no books, notes, etc). Online schools are also ideal for students in the military or in jobs that requires frequent travel. Courses can be taken from anywhere in the world.

2. Find English equivalents in the text:

Личное присутствие, обеспечивать, предлагать смешанные программы, братство, частые командировки, амортизация, возможность, дистанционное обучение, жесткое расписание

3. Answer the questions:

1. What are the trends in education?

2. Why are traditional classes useful for learners?

3. What is the main feature of online classes?

4. What areas of study are the most appropriate for the classroom setting? Do you agree with this list? Can you add more?

5. Could you study at online school? Why?

4. Learn the advantages and disadvantages of different form of education. Do you agree? Add you own pros and cons.

Advantages of Online Education

1. More flexibility for students who work full-time

2. The ability to complete assignments at times when it is most convenient

3. The ability to obtain a degree from a school in another state without moving

4. This form of education is ideal for military students

5. Less Travel

Disadvantages of Online Education

1. Less direct contact with students and professors

2. Limited opportunities for student and campus activities

3. Subject to “technical difficulties” and software crashes

Advantages of Traditional Education

1. Direct contact with teachers, students, and advisors

2. More access to campus activities

3. More suitable for hands on training

Disadvantages of Traditional Education

1. Less flexibility in class scheduling

2. Less cost effective

3. More travel to and from class

5. There are some opinions about different forms of education. Study them. Which one is closer to you? Why?

epbooks I am almost finished with an online program myself and it can definitely be rewarding but certainly requires a great deal of self-discipline as mentioned. It is not for everyone but you can get hands-on experience depending on the program your school has. Although you do not have the face-to-face interaction, you still do have a lot of involvement with your professors and other students through discussion forums, online class projects, and weekly assignments depending on how each class is set up. I highly recommend them for people who are motivated enough to complete the program but are unable to attend traditional classes.

toptenreviewI think that traditional education is better. I'm always so skeptical of doing classes online. I think that I won't learn what I need to and then I'll have problems on test or even in the future.

sminut13  I have found that online education takes a great deal of self-discipline to complete the classes. The open-ended classes where you have to complete the work ... whenever are truly difficult. Stick with the ones with deadlines and more structure and things will be a lot easier.

epbooksSince I wanted to get my Bachelors when I was in my late thirties, I was too busy to attend school at a campus, so I chose University of Phoenix online. I loved it. I think there's a common misconception that online school is easier, however, in a way, it's just as hard, if not more difficult because there is a ton of writing involved versus in classroom participation, which I was never fond of!

cozytownI agree with the earlier post in that doing online courses definitely need lots of self-discipline. I tried to do an online free course, just to improve something of myself and I'm just too lazy. Hehe. But it's also partly due to the poor internet connection at my place. Hopefully, after my holiday, I can continue it where I stay and complete it.

I prefer the online education as well, it is more convenient and time saving, especially for busy people. The lack of contacts can be a bad thing, but we should adapt.

mdgardner I agree online courses are much harder than people think. I would much rather be in class instead of writing out everything to get credit for participation.

ignugent17 I think I will always like traditional education. We can do things online but I still need to be with people to discuss things face to face. :-)

6. Write 5-6 sentences expressing your opinion about traditional and online education.