by Christina Mainka

There are more similarities than differences between online and face-to-face (f2f) classes, including the material, assignments, and in a modified form, discussions.  However, some individuals expect online classes to be easier than f2f classes.  In reality, online classes may be more difficult for some students, primarily because it is so easy to “forget to go to class” (i.e., log on).

One fundamental difference between the two is the discussions.  In the f2f class, all student discussions take place in real time (in person), so students do not have the opportunity to think about and research the topic, especially when the topic veers in an unexpected direction; in-class comments are “top of the head.”   In contrast, online class discussions are asynchronous, where students have an opportunity to think about and research both their own and their classmates’ positions, and provide online and other citations.  Thus, the discussion tends to be more substantive.  Because of this research capability, online classes should have more rigor than f2f classes. 

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