By Kace Schermerhorn

Over the last ten weeks, students have been in virtual classrooms; conducting school via something called “distance learning”. The Prowler contacted students by email and phone to find how they have been spending their time distance learning. Some students prefer it to traditional classroom learning, while others would rather continue to use distance learning.

“I like distance learning much more than classroom learning. I can get my work done more efficiently at home. I can also sleep-in; I don’t have to wake up at six in the morning. I can also eat whenever I want to. There aren’t really any guidelines, like dress code or being in class at a certain time; I can also stay in my pajamas all day long. All in all, I prefer distance learning over classroom learning, seeing all of the advantages it has,” sophomore Jolene Flores said.

Some students prefer the freedoms they are afforded during distance learning. “I enjoy distance learning because it gives me more freedom to choose when and where I can complete my assignments,” sophomore Alex Kerzic said. “I get a lot more time to work at my own pace, and I don’t have to wake up early,” Kerzic also said. 

Some students see the advantages and disadvantages that come with distance learning. “Distance learning has its pros and cons. Although I do like having more free time, and a much more open schedule, it has been very hard to find motivation as well as get into contact with teachers at specific times,” sophomore Jaymeson Hacker said. “I personally prefer classroom learning for the mere reason that I learn and comprehend more when I am being taught by a teacher as opposed to a screen… work has also been incredibly easy, which will not prepare me for my future career.”

Some students want more structure and getting off schedule can lead to a lack of motivation. “In my opinion, I think that distance learning is so much easier than being at school. However, it has made me a lot more lazy, and it can get a little complicated when you don’t understand something, and then you have to wait until your teachers are available to go on zoom and then you can get help,” sophomore Alia Hernandez said.

Students don’t need to worry about specific deadlines for their assignments. “Distance learning is nice because I can finish assignments at my pace instead of spending an excessive amount of time at school. I can finish classes faster but that face-to-face connection with teachers and the ability to collaborate effectively with peers is lost,” junior Brayden Caldwell said.

While distance learning may be simpler, some students miss being able to see their friends. “I’ve been knocking out my school work and trying to get it out of the way. I find different chores to do around the house and have some hobbies I’ve started up, even a new Instagram account. I think this online school is easier and more convenient but I would take regular school over it due to the interactions with people and friends,” junior Jaden Villarreal said.

Of the students interviewed, several seem to like the new distance learning guidelines. Students shared they enjoy things like working at their own pace, sleeping in, and having more freedom make them enjoy distance learning more than classroom learning.