As a new method of learning continues to come about, Dual Enrollment has grown immensely in popularity this year. Upperclassmen at Marriotts Ridge have the option of taking classes at Howard Community College to fill in for their graduation requirements. This option is great for many students because it allows them to earn college credit, tailor their schedule and get around advance placement exams.
AP English and AP World History have become the most popular classes to take at HCC amongst juniors. However, the popularity between online, asynchronous and in-person classes seems to vary, with many students leaning towards the asynchronous option.
Asynchronous classes vary from online classes as they do not have any required zoom sessions or direct communication with teachers. There are still deadlines for assignments, but they can be done at any time before the due date. Asynchronous classes seem to be the most popular type of class because of their flexibility.
“I don’t have to drive there and I can do the classes at the comfort of my own house,” junior Rithvik Maturi explained.
Asynchronous is a great option for students looking to be independent and flexible. But, it does have its disadvantages, and many students find it hard to learn in an environment with little teaching and support. In this case, students can opt to take classes in person at HCC, which is similar to a typical classroom setting.
“It is a little inconvenient that I have to go to HCC, but I learn better there,” junior Gwen Montgomery elaborated.
One of the main reasons HCC classes have gotten so popular is because of recommendations from counselors. Counselors know that HCC classes help students get a head start on college, in terms of college credits and higher level learning, and they recommend them to students who they think might be a good fit.
“They told me about the possibilities and compared them to AP classes,” Maturi said.
Counselors also guide students through the registration and sign up process, offering help when needed and providing the forms necessary for the application process.
“My counselor helped me through the application process,” Montgomery said.
Taking classes at HCC is also a great way to free up your schedule and make more room for electives or classes that apply to one’s interests. Students can take courses that fit their field of study or have fun in classes like foods or weights.
“[I suggest taking] graduation requirements [at HCC] because then you get to take all the fun electives like anatomy or a language in school,” junior Mythri Saripalli added.
After being introduced to online classes during Covid-19, Dual Enrollment at HCC has become incredibly popular; early releases and late arrivals have become extremely common amongst junior and senior schedules. Overall, Dual Enrollment seems to be well liked and popular amongst students due to its flexibility and variety of learning styles, classes and teachers.