Реферат

Based on the article "The Future of Online Education" on page 145, the future of
online education looks promising and is rapidly expanding. The article discusses the
history of distance education and how it has evolved from correspondence courses to
online degree programs. The Sloan Consortium's report, "Changing Course: Ten
Years of Tracking Online Education in the United States," highlights the significant
increase in the number of students taking online courses, with over 6.7 million
students enrolled in the fall 2011 term.

The overall growth of higher education is attributed to the changing economy, where
specialized skills are increasingly necessary for employment in the service sector. As
a result, post-secondary education is now considered critical for workplace viability
by a majority of the population. The rise in internet access further supports the shift
towards online education, with over 71.7% of U.S. households having internet access
by 2011.

Colleges are recognizing the need to adapt to this trend and are moving their
programs online to meet the growing demand and reach a wider audience. The
convenience of online education, particularly for working adults, is a key factor
driving its popularity, as it allows individuals to pursue further education without
significantly impacting their personal and professional lives.

The article suggests that as adults continue to seek learning opportunities that fit their
lifestyle, online education will remain an attractive option for those looking to build
new skills or enhance existing ones to improve their job prospects. With the
increasing proportion of total enrollments being online, it is evident that online
education is becoming an integral part of the future of learning.
 Підсумок
In his article "No Allusions in the Classroom," Jaime O'Neill discusses the existing
gap between students and teachers in college classrooms, highlighting the assumption
of basic knowledge by teachers and the reluctance of students to ask questions due to
fear of showing ignorance. He supports his argument with the results of a general
knowledge test administered to his students and recent polls showing widespread
ignorance among adults in the US. O'Neill suggests that instructors should take
responsibility for providing general information to their students.

In "The Coming Revolution in Public Education," John Tierney criticizes educational

reforms in the USA, arguing that they introduce standardized tests and assessments in
public schools, hold teachers accountable for results, and recommend controlling
classroom instruction. He asserts that these reforms have profit motives and corporate
interests, advocating for more autonomy and respect for teachers as professionals.
Tierney warns against the loss of individuality and diversity due to standardization
and opposes business involvement in public education.

In "Open online courses - an avalanche that might just get stopped," James Vernon
raises concerns about massive open online courses (MOOCs), highlighting that while
they are offered for free, they may not generate revenue or cover costs. He
emphasizes the difficulty in effectively monitoring and controlling the quality of
education through MOOCs and warns about the potential access of low-achieving
students to higher education if businesses sell MOOCs. Additionally, Vernon notes
that academics are not enthusiastic about online higher education.
 Опорний лист
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Ms. Marry for the MSc in Applied
Ecology and Conservation at the University of South Anglia. I have had the pleasure
of knowing and working with Ms. Marry for almost 15 years, primarily through our
collaborative efforts on an international ecological project in India.

Ms. Marry is an exceptional professional in the field of biodiversity conservation in

India, and her contributions have been widely recognized and respected. She is
known for her innovative thinking, intelligence, and articulate communication skills.
Her dedication to her work and her commitment to professional development are
evident in her decision to pursue postgraduate studies at this point in her already
successful career.

In addition to her professional achievements, Ms. Marry Mapossesses the maturity,

self-discipline, and independence necessary to thrive at the postgraduate level. Her
proficiency in English is at a native-speaker standard, having used the language
throughout her education and professional life.

I am confident that Ms. Marry will be a valuable addition to the MSc program at the
University of South Anglia. Her passion for ecological conservation, coupled with
her exceptional skills and experience, will undoubtedly contribute to the academic
community and the field as a whole.

Should you require any further information or have any questions, please do not
hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely, Veronika