Opinion essay – agree or disagree with a statement（观点型议论文——同意或不同意某一论述）
Choose the correct options in the gaps to complete the following essay.
✍ Distance learning courses are inferior to courses that take place in person. Therefore, these qualifications should not be valued as highly.
To what extent do you agree with this view?
Many people 1 that distance learning courses are less effective than traditional, in-person classes, and 2 the qualifications earned should be valued less. I 3 with this view for two main reasons. I 4 the view that the accessibility provided by online education allows it to reach a wider audience, democratising education. In addition, the self-discipline and self-directed learning required in distance learning 5 to promote valuable life skills relevant in many professional contexts.
Firstly, online education 6 offer a level of flexibility that traditional courses often cannot match. People with full-time jobs, family responsibilities, or those living in remote areas can still have access to quality education. This level of accessibility could democratise education, allowing for a broader range of individuals to gain qualifications and skills. 7 , platforms like Coursera and edX offer courses from top universities worldwide, accessible to anyone with an internet connection.
8 , distance learning 9 requires self-discipline and self-directed learning, skills that are highly valued in many professions. Online courses require effective time management and self-motivation, promoting independence and personal responsibility. For example, a study by the Open University indicated that employers often appreciate the self-motivation and discipline demonstrated by graduates of online courses.
In conclusion, I 10 think that distance learning courses should not be considered inferior to traditional courses. They offer unique advantages like flexibility and the development of self-discipline, which are crucial in today's fast-paced world. The value of an educational qualification should be determined by the knowledge and skills gained, not by the medium through which they were acquired.