Entry #5: Half-time semesters at colleges and universities

Most semesters at colleges and universities (In the U.S. at least) are about 15-16 weeks long. With the advent of technology and its greater expanse and reach, many educational facilities are now implementing these tools. The following article from the Arizona Republic in part talks about the increased use of online technology at Arizona State University and the impacts its having (has had) on the structure of the semester length. It describes how online classes are being sought-after and becoming a popular choice by both on-campus and online-only students (those not able to commute to campus). The online classes offered at ASU are designed around 7 1/2 week semesters to appeal to non-traditional students. The success in this area has influenced the creation of 7.5 week courses that occur on-campus. The benefits described range from greater flexibility in schedules, financial savings and the ability to finish a degree in a faster timeline. Some faculty also lauded the shorter semester classes and the shorter commitment required. The article also makes sure to include the opposing view of students who feel the shorter length of the semester is not enough to properly learn the material and of faculty who view the decision as too rash.

Personally, as a member of the audience this article is attempting to speak to, I think both the online classes and shorter on-campus classes are a good idea- in most cases. For example, a laboratory class is one that  I would most definitely prefer to be hands-on for a longer period of time. Artistic, musical, language classes also fit my preference of longer length at least partially on-campus classes. But like the article concludes the same opportunities won't work or be a preference for everyone; but that's okay, at least the options are available.



Source:

Ryman, Anne. "Arizona State University to Offer More Short Classes." The Arizona Republic: AZcentral.com. The Arizona Republic, 20 Feb. 2011. Web. 15 Nov. 2015. <http://archive.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/news/articles/2011/02/22/20110222arizona-state-university-shorter-classes.html>.