These days, internet-based courses have become a popular alternative to university-based courses. Some students prefer this type of learning because they do not need to attend lectures. Others argue that it is important to study at universities. Discuss both ideas and give your opinion.

  The fact that the internet is playing a pivotal role in our life nowadays, especially in the field of education, is undeniable. In spite of the fact that some people opine internet-based classes can be a good replacement for actual university classes, others contend that is not a suitable alternative and students should be required to participate in face to face classes. In my idea each of these education systems has its own pros and cons.

On the one hand, proponents of those courses which are internet-based argue that they can save pupils’ time, for they do not need to commute to their university which may be far from their residing place; besides, finance-wise it can save them some money that can be spent on other probable expenses. For instance, my brother is a student whose university is located 500 kilometers away from his house. If it were not for the internet-based classes, he would not be able to save his money and time.

On the other hand, opponents of virtual classes highlight the lack of face-to-face communication with professors. They believe that the presence of students in an actual class not only has emotional benefits but also can affect the quality of education. Concerning the latter effect, statistics issued by students association in Princeton University indicates %78 of those who participate in university-based courses enjoy better grades; furthermore, they are much more motivated to continue their education up to post PH.D levels.

I myself am of the opinion that whether students choose actual or virtual system depends on their future goal. What I mean is that those who have to work and study simultaneously ought to go for the internet-based courses; nevertheless, those who have enough time and care about the quality of their education had better choose the actual approach.

Having considered all the above-mentioned facts, this conclusion can be drawn that each system has its own merits and drawbacks, yet what I prefer is a class in which there are some wooden seats, a couple of naughty classmates and a kind teacher who would look daggers at me in case I am distracted.

 Analysis

 A. Task response:

1. This essay has covered all parts of the given topic because the candidate has spent enough time on understanding the topic before he/she started to write.

2. The candidate has stated his opinion vividly regarding the topic both in a separate paragraph (the 3^rd paragraph) and in conclusion.

3. Structure-wise, the central paragraphs have been written using a range of techniques, (the 1^st one with example, and the 2^nd one with statistics).

4. This candidate has written 370 words, which has far exceeded the mentioned standard; thus, it will be considered a weak point.

B. Coherence & cohesion:

1. This essay is not only coherent (ideas have been arranged logically) but also cohesive due to the fact that the candidate has applied cohesive devices such as besides, not only … but also, furthermore as well as transitions including on the one hand, on the other hand . Needless to say, well-supported paragraphs are bound to be cohesive.

C. Grammar:

1. This candidate has used an extensive range of structures including noun clause, adjective clause, compound/complex structures; more importantly, they are correct.

2. The candidate has paid special attention to punctuation which contributes to the score.

D. Vocabulary:

1. This candidate has used a large range of appropriate & various words whose collocations are correct, for instance undeniable, pupil, approach, merit, …

۲٫ There is no sign of repetitive words or contractions in the essay; also, spelling and capitalization have been taken care of flawlessly.

Examiner’s final comment:

Totally, this essay seems good enough to be worthy of IELTS Band 7.5 because of the above-mentioned points.