EDBT 4570 Course - online work

I know that my opinion is not the popular opinion expressed so far but I have not enjoyed the online portion of this course. I agree that it is convenient to not have to go downtown after an exhausting day of work. I agree that there is convenience in when and where you can get the course work done. However those benefits are out weighted with the loss of weekend time, stress of getting it done on time, and loss of face to face communication to help clarify information. After doing online course work I feel less confident in understanding and knowing the information than I do when it is taught in class. I get a lot from hearing the instructor give examples that enhance lecture. I get a lot from hearing the discussion that occurs and most of the time someone will ask a question that I was wondering myself. I know that we have email, and can ask questions to get clarification but I don't like the delay. I miss the nonverbal communication that goes with the verbal. I enjoy when we go to class and have time to complete projects and assignments. I know that most of us don't get the online class done during the week because we ARE busy and EXHAUSTED. That is always an ongoing issue, one that won't go away. One day of the week is never better than another where that is concerned. I don't like loosing weekend time and feeling the pressure of completing an assignment. I would prefer to tough it out and go to class once during the week knowing that after that was done I was done for the week. NTI has been a great experience overall but what is most beneficial for me is the time spent with colleagues talking, having lunch, sharing experiences. The impersonal environment of blogging and online discussion groups just doesn't cut it for me.