Blog#3 - E-Learning, We learning?

In chapter 3, Bonk provides facts, figures, and a summary of new legislation mandating online education in K-12 classrooms. A 2007 Project Tomorrow study found that almost half of all high school students and one-third of all middle school students are interested in taking online courses not currently available in their schools (Bonk, 2009). I was surprised to learn that both Michigan and Florida are acting on this research in passing laws requiring the incorporation (Michigan) or option (Florida) of online coursework in all public K-12 schools...which makes me wonder if Pennsylvania is considering a similar course of action.
The respondents of the Project Tomorrow study may be particularly interested in learning about the United Kingdom's Open University. It is the largest university in the country boasting over a quarter of a million (!!!) current students. From high school students to students in their nineties, The OU spans many generations, courses of study, and is entirely online. It is not-for-profit, so costs are low and financial aid is readily available. Compare this option to a private university in the United States topping $50K for one year, and The OU is a no brainer. The OU offers law degrees, Ph.D's, Masters degrees, and bachelor degrees.
I have many questions about The OU. First, do students earn a truly quality education at The OU? Has (enough) research been conducted in order to determine the answer? What about student involvement in activities outside of the "classroom" - sports teams, band, theatre, clubs? These experiences form the whole student and create lasting memories, let alone learned skills such as teamwork and the art of winning and losing gracefully.
As a single mom, I especially appreciate the opportunities for cost effective online education. However, I still believe that the traditional college experience should be afforded to every student who pursues higher education.