Do Enrolled College Students Who Pay Fees Feel Cheated if Their Institutions Offer Free Online Courses?

I can’t speak for anyone else’s feelings.

However, I can provide some context on the experience and perspective of being enrolled in an online course where you are receiving regular feedback from an instructor and possibly your classmates, compared to a free online course with little to no feedback. This type of matriculated experience is quite different from simply engaging in free coursework.

For enrolled students who have paid for their courses, the experience includes a level of engagement and support that is not available to those taking free online courses. This includes access to:

Regular feedback from instructors Potential interaction with classmates Examination of critical thinking and communication skills Access to student support services, such as tutoring, advising, and library resources

The experience of enrolling in an online course, especially one that requires regular feedback and assessment, can be vastly different from a self-directed free online course that primarily includes standardized tests. The former offers a more comprehensive learning experience, while the latter may lack the necessary elements to fully develop essential skills and knowledge.

Is It Cheating to Take Free Online Courses?

I wouldn’t necessarily feel cheated if I were enrolled in college today and offered free online courses. However, it is best for those impacted by such offerings to consider their personal and educational goals.

For students who are experienced in directing their own learning, free online courses can still be a valuable resource. These courses often offer a wealth of information and the opportunity to explore new subjects of personal or professional interest. Such students are well-equipped to make the most of these resources and can likely benefit significantly from the material.

On the other hand, less-experienced and/or less-motivated students may not benefit as much from free online courses. Without structured feedback and dedicated support, they may find it challenging to fully engage with the material and develop the necessary skills.

The key to benefiting from free online courses lies in the student’s willingness to self-direct their learning and to seek additional resources and support when needed. Many free online courses offer excellent content, but they often lack the structured feedback and support that paid courses provide.

Conclusion

While free online courses can be a valuable supplement to formal education, they should not replace the structured, supported experience of enrolling in college courses. For enrolled students, the benefits of paid courses include access to comprehensive feedback, structured learning, and access to support services that are often essential for academic and professional success.

Ultimately, the decision to take free courses or to invest in formal education depends on the individual’s goals, motivations, and learning style. Both options have their merits, but they should be approached with a clear understanding of what each can offer.