Online Learning vs. Correspondence Learning

In my ECMP 455 class we had a discussion about online learning vs. correspondence learning. I want to clear up why I said “having no deadlines is negative.” I meant this relating to my correspondence class through Athabasca. An online class, like ECMP 455, is different because I meet with my professor and class once a week (online or in person). Also being in contact with your fellow classmates at any time also helps build structure in an online class. If I have questions I am able to ask for help and receive feedback. In correspondence there is no other students to talk with and maybe help understand some things. Through correspondence it is just you and if you have questions you need to call someone and wait on the phone for an answer. I actually told my tutor for my Athabasca class to give me an end date just so I had a date at the end of the tunnel. This tutor refused to just tell me a date. I work better with deadlines but I think even knowing the end date of your class helps to see the end of the tunnel and to work towards it. I prefer due dates because then I know when I am expected to have it finished. Some classes without due dates can still work. I think it all depends on what a person is used to and how they like to work. I think different situations and classes give you a different idea of due dates and no due dates. So as you can see, I would rather be part of an online learning class then a lonely correspondence class.