U-Say

NY Goodwin 11 January 2009

I refer to the article about Egypt computerising the university curricula. I have just completed a degree that was half-earned through online classes and I strongly agree that professors need more face-to-face communication. Online education also does not give the university a chance to see the quality of the person or not, and online education allows cheating if a person so desires to do so. Professors are often given more students than they would have in person and they are not reading all the assignments students turn in.

Many professors are working at other full-time jobs and "teaching" two or three or more online classes. I believe it is just a way for the universities to save money and the social problems of having students come on their property.

This saves them overhead to some extent and parking, etc. I have a bachelor's in sociology and have just completed a master's in conflict management. Thankfully I am also self-taught and I have always been furthering my mind by reading and travelling.

I believe online education has a place but it is not worth being used in all classes all the time. Universities should tread much more slowly in adapting online education and moving to computerised books as reading on the computer is damaging to one's eyes and mental health.

Do not lessen the value of paper research in libraries and bookstores. Electronic means should be under the control of the human and not their guide.

NY Goodwin

Receive UWN's free weekly e-newsletters

A new global university ranking with an ethical mission

Aftab Dean

A new university ranking system aims to serve as a catalyst for positive transformation in higher education, ensuring that universities create an environment grounded in integrity and sustainability that inspires and supports students and staff in the development of novel solutions to global challenges.

Promoted by Globethics.net.

SDG progress report launches university into new territory

University of Pretoria staff

In the publication of its first progress report on its contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals, the University of Pretoria is navigating new territory at the same time as it is acknowledging its clear stewardship role in protecting the environment and biodiversity.

Promoted by the University of Pretoria.

Researchers in the UAE tackle water scarcity at its core

UAE University staff

Water scarcity has long been an issue in countries such as the United Arab Emirates. But the country’s National Water and Energy Center, based at the United Arab Emirates University, is providing solutions for the efficient exploration, development, use, storage and sustainability of the precious resource.

Promoted by United Arab Emirates University.