The Online Classroom of the Future

In my ridiculous future devoid of any scientific understanding, this is how online classrooms will work.

Holographic Classrooms. Instead of the teacher, the one getting paid to show up, appearing via hologram to the class, everyone will have their hologram projected several feet in front of their classmates’ computer, either individually when it’s their turn to speak, or collectively, to “truly” replicate the classroom experience. If a student feels like playing hooky, they can blame technological malfunctions for their absence instead of a stomach bug or flat tires.

Effective Integration of Classroom Websites on Mobile Platforms. This is by far my most far-fetched prediction. It’s a lot to ask, but it would make discussion board posts and quick updates about homework assignments all the more manageable.

Internet-Ready Brains and Instant Updates. It’d be great if I had the Internet synched up directly to my mind. A popular theory, but its usage is probably the most advantageous for instantaneous homework updates and feedback. I’m not all in favor of it though, mostly because I can’t claim to have not received details on the assignment. Being able to think about plagiarizing, look up said information, actually learn and utilize it within the span of a few minutes would be pretty “boss”, as the kids say.

Video Responses – Everyone who has taken an online class, whether they want to admit it or not, wishes they knew who the hottest, or most unkempt, members of their course were. It’s also much easier to call someone out for using the Internet to back up their arguments while crafting responses to discussion topics.

Direct Links to Professors. Continuing on my complex computer chip in the brain theory, a cell phone or e-mail-like application would be established for students to send questions through thought to their professor. Instructors are not known for their enjoyment of privacy, and this would allow every single question a student might think of to get a speedy response. An awesome proposition indeed.