In recent years, the use of online courses being offered has grown in popularity. However, there is much debate about whether online school is really as good of an idea as many people think. Many people argue that online courses detach students from real-world interactions by allowing them to do virtually everything from their couch at home. In reality, online courses are extremely beneficial to students for a wide variety of reasons.

   Students may be drawn to online courses because of their convenience. Being able to sit through an entire lecture while laying in bed with sweatpants on does seem quite appealing. However, do not mistake this convenience for laziness. Many students, particularly those in the entertainment business or with full time jobs, simply do not have the time to go to school in the middle of the day. Online courses, however, allow students with busy, inconsistent schedules to still gain a proper education in a way that works for them.

   According to Excel High School, an award-winning online high school, “When you are not required to be in class at a certain time, or for a certain period of time, your study time can reflect your own needs rather than accommodate a school’s schedule” (excelhighschool.com). Online courses are a great option for students who still desire a thorough education, but have a hard time attending traditional school because of their tightly packed schedules.

   Excel High School also claims that with online school, “…you will not have the pressure of being required to keep your learning at the pace set in the classroom. This means you can proceed at a faster pace, or work slower, depending upon your own personal learning style” (excelhighschool.com). In this way, online school is personalized for the student.

   The pace and style of a course can have a major impact on the education a student receives. For many students, age-old high school teaching styles that have been in place for decades just do not work for them. Especially in large schools with such a diverse student body, it is nearly impossible to find a teaching strategy that works well for everyone. Online courses, however, allow students to have a more personalized education that is more catered towards their individual needs.

   According to a scholarly blog, “Many times, online schools will have more class options than traditional ones because they are not restricted by a limited number of classrooms or teachers like traditional high schools are” (blog.prepscholar.com). Students who wish to take unique courses that are not often offered at traditional high schools have this option with online courses. Moreover, it should be noted that “…some online schools even offer specializations or the opportunity to tailor your courses to subjects that interest you more” (blog.prepscholar.com). Students who have specific interests will be able to really develop their skills by taking advantage of the plethora of courses offered by online schools.

   Many students at UC High are also supporters of online courses. Senior Tavin Perry said, “Online school is a great option for people who already have a grasp on a future career path. Online classes gives them a flexible schedule to allow time for work opportunities or internships.” As a senior with a job, Perry sees the benefits of having online courses as an option.

   While online school may not be for everyone, it is certainly a very good option for many students. It is important that schools keep in mind that not everyone learns at the same pace, or has the same time in their schedules to attend traditional high schools. Thus, having online courses as an option allows students with unique needs and interests to still gain a proper education.