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Academic Discussion prompt

What do you think? Is online learning as effective as traditional classroom learning? Why or why not?

Every scored sample answer Reach120 publishes for this prompt, banded so you can see the range rather than one version of "good".

3 sample answersEducation

The prompt

As it appears in practice

Online learning, also known as e-learning, refers to the use of digital platforms to conduct educational courses and training over the internet. With advancements in technology and the increasing availability of high-speed internet, online learning has become a popular alternative to traditional classroom settings. It offers flexibility and access to resources but also presents challenges in maintaining student engagement and ensuring the quality of education.

Sample answers, by band

3 published

Reach120 practice band estimate — not an official ETS score How we estimate

Middle response

Band 4.53.5/5 rubric
I believe that online learning can be just as impactful as traditional classroom learning. I agree with Yuki that online learning can be just as efficient as traditional classroom learning. I believe this because online learning allows students to learn at their own pace and access a wide range of materials. A notable advantage is that students can use online tools, such as video calls and discussion boards, to communicate with teachers and classmates. These tools can provide opportunities for interaction and feedback. I understand Leila's concern that online learning lacks the personal interaction and immediate feedback that a classroom environment provides. However, new technologies may help solve some of these problems. Therefore, I believe that online learning is as productive as traditional classroom learning in many situations. For these reasons, I firmly believe that online learning can be just as effective as traditional classroom learning.
Read the full feedback on this answer

Middle response

Band 4.53.5/5 rubric
I agree with Yuki that online learning can be just as effective as traditional classroom learning. I believe this because online learning allows students to learn at their own pace and access a wide range of materials. I understand Leila's concern that online learning lacks the personal interaction and immediate feedback that a classroom environment provides. However, new technologies may help solve some of these problems. For example, students can use online tools, such as video calls and discussion boards, to communicate with teachers and classmates. These tools can provide opportunities for interaction and feedback. Therefore, I believe that online learning can be just as effective as traditional classroom learning in many situations.

What worked

  • Clear position
  • Engagement with classmates
  • Relevant examples

What cost points

  • Generic examples
  • Limited syntactic variety
Read the full feedback on this answer

Middle response

Band 4.53.5/5 rubric
I agree with Yuki that online learning can be just as effective as traditional classroom learning. I believe this because online learning allows students to learn at their own pace and accesss a wide range of materials. I understand Leila's concern that online learning lacks the personal interaction and immediate feedback that a classroom environment provides. However, new technologies may help solve some of these problems. For example, student can use online tools, such as video calls and discussion boards, to communicate with teachers and classmates. Therefore, I believe that online learning as effective as traditional classroom learning in many situations.

What worked

  • Clear Position
  • References Classmates
  • Logical Structure

What cost points

  • Generic Examples
  • Minor Grammatical Errors
Read the full feedback on this answer

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