Student Interview: Should I Take an Online Class?

Taking an online class could be a good option for some students as you navigate the complexities of navigating college life. Students at King’s can take one online class concurrently with other courses in the fall and spring semesters and can take up to two online classes during the summer semester.

As you think about your schedule for upcoming semesters, consider this input from Katie Medders, a Senior PPE major, who has experience in both classroom learning and online learning at King’s.

1) Tell us about your experience taking online classes at King’s.
During my three years at King’s, I have taken six online classes– four during the summer and two during the regular school year. When I decided to come to King’s, I made it a priority to take advantage of the kinds of opportunities that come with being a student in New York City. This has meant that certain jobs, internships, and experiences have been a priority. Balancing these opportunities while prioritizing school work is a challenge, and it’s one that many King’s students face each semester. For me, online classes have helped make this possible. During the school year, online classes like Western Civilization I and Introduction to New Testament have opened up my availability to participate in internship events and service opportunities. In choosing when and where I learn, I have been able to participate in opportunities during regular school hours. During the summer, online classes have allowed me to travel and work full-time while taking elective courses like Politics of Deviance and Human Resources Management.

2) What is the difference between online classes taken during the semester or during the summer?
The distinguishing factor between fall/spring online courses and summer semester is length of time. The summer semester is significantly shorter in length and, as a result, requires students to pack in much more learning each week. However, context also matters. During the regular school year, you may be working ten hours a week and taking four in-class courses. While online classes can allow for flexibility in your work day hours, it’s important to remember that the online format will not be helpful if you put too much on your plate. During the summer semester, you may take only one class while interning at a company in the city or return home. It’s also important to remember that, while the summer semester may feel like a good time to complete a few classes, it is still important to leave time for rest and fun.

3) What advice do you have for students considering taking an online class at King’s?
Be honest with yourself about your priorities and how you learn. If there is an internship or job that requires your time during the school day, an online class may be for you. If you find that it is helpful to learn at your own pace, being able to listen to lectures multiple times and think carefully before responding to a classmates remarks, you may thrive in an online class. Online classes can give you flexibility in how and when you learn. However, online classes are not a free pass. You will still have quizzes, tests, and papers. You will still be expected to participate in online discussion with classmates and recall information in the form of midterms and finals. The online format can be helpful but it can also can easily become a last priority in the hectic life of a King’s student. It’s something to be aware of before you begin.

4) Who should students talk to if they have questions about taking a class online?
Brittin Ward (bward@tkc.edu) is the administrator for online learning at King’s, so refer to him regarding which classes will be offered online. If your questions are related to what to expect in online classes, seek out an upper level student who has experience taking online classes at King’s– or reach out to me at studentsuccess@tkc.edu!

5. If students finds themselves struggling in an online class, who do they reach out to?
All the same resources are available to students in online classes as those in on-campus courses. Although most online classes do not have a Faculty Assistant, the professors and the Office of Student Success are always available to help.