Matemática EAD Vale a Pena?

Summary

The speaker discusses their perspective on distance learning mathematics courses, specifically the Bachelor's degree in Mathematics offered by Uninter. They mention that while the course is recognized by MEC and has a decent reputation, it may not be as in-depth as traditional university courses due to reduced hours per subject. The speaker highlights the extensive range of subjects covered, which could provide a broad overview but might not allow for deep specialization. They also express concerns about the time-consuming nature of online courses, which could detract from self-study and limit the opportunity for personal growth in mathematics. Additionally, they note the importance of direct interaction with professors and the experience of learning beyond the curriculum, which may be lacking in distance education. While acknowledging that a distance learning degree can be a valid pathway for those aiming to become mathematics teachers or for those who require a mathematics background for industrial work, the speaker suggests that for those with academic aspirations, a traditional university education might be more beneficial due to the opportunities for deeper engagement and networking.

Takeaways

• 🎓 The speaker completed a Mathematics Licensure at a Federal University and took an online course in Information Technology, which they found very important.
• 🏫 The speaker inquired about a good Mathematics course and was recommended the Uninter course. They reviewed the curriculum and discussed the Bachelor's degree in Mathematics offered by Uninter.
• 📚 The Uninter course is recognized by MEC and has a 'C' grade, indicating it is not a bad course to start with, and the speaker believes it will help students learn and enjoy Mathematics.
• 🕒 The Uninter course has a reduced workload compared to the Federal University, with a maximum of 56 hours per subject, while the Federal University typically has 60 to 120 hours.
• 📈 The Uninter course breaks down subjects into smaller parts, which might reduce the depth of study but allows for a broader overview.
• 📈 The speaker mentions an overwhelming number of subjects offered in the Uninter course, which might not allow for deep specialization.
• 🕒 Distance learning courses tend to consume a lot of time with regular online activities, assessments, and mandatory readings, which can detract from self-study or preparation for further studies.
• 🤔 The speaker doubts that a distance learning course would provide the same level of personal experience and connection with professors as an in-person university would.
• 📚 Personal experiences, such as reading books beyond the curriculum and conversing with professors, played a significant role in the speaker's passion for Mathematics, which they believe might be lacking in a distance learning environment.
• 🎓 Although a distance learning course is recognized by MEC and can be used to apply for a master's degree, the speaker has not personally known anyone who has done so with an online Mathematics degree.
• 🚪 The speaker concludes that while distance learning courses are valid for becoming a Mathematics teacher or for obtaining a Mathematics curriculum for industrial work, they might not open as many doors for an academic career or for those who wish to study beyond what is offered in the degree curriculum.

Q & A

What is the speaker's educational background in mathematics?

The speaker has a degree in Mathematics Licensure from a Federal University and took an online course in Information Technology during their Mathematics course at Uninter.

What is the speaker's opinion on the Uninter's online Mathematics course?

The speaker believes that the Uninter's online Mathematics course is recognized by MEC and has a decent reputation, but they express concerns about the reduced course load and the breadth rather than depth of the subjects covered.

How does the speaker compare the course load of Uninter's online course to traditional university courses?

The speaker notes that Uninter's online courses have a maximum of 56 hours, compared to the minimum of 60 to a maximum of 120 hours in traditional university courses, suggesting a lighter load in the online format.

What are some unique subjects included in Uninter's online Mathematics course?

The course includes subjects like non-Euclidean geometry and game theory, which the speaker found surprising and not commonly found in undergraduate Mathematics programs.

How does the speaker perceive the time commitment for online courses?

The speaker believes that online courses tend to consume a lot of time throughout the week with various activities, assessments, and mandatory readings, which might detract from self-study or preparation for further studies.

What are the potential drawbacks of online courses for a Mathematics student according to the speaker?

The speaker suggests that online courses might not allow for the same depth of learning, limit opportunities for personal connections with professors, and may not provide the same level of preparation for advanced studies or academic careers.

What role did reading and interacting with professors play in the speaker's development of an interest in Mathematics?

Reading books beyond the curriculum and engaging with professors about their experiences and careers significantly contributed to the speaker's passion for Mathematics.

Is an online Mathematics degree sufficient for pursuing a master's or doctorate degree?

The speaker confirms that an online degree is recognized by MEC and can be used to apply for a master's or doctorate, but they have not personally known anyone who has done so with an online Mathematics degree.

What are the speaker's concerns regarding the preparation for a master's or doctorate entrance exam with an online Mathematics degree?

The speaker is concerned that the reduced course load and the breadth-focused curriculum of online courses may not adequately prepare students for the depth required in entrance exams for advanced studies.

What is the speaker's conclusion about online Mathematics courses for those who want to pursue an academic career?

The speaker concludes that while online courses are valid and can teach Mathematics, they might not open as many doors, especially for those aiming for an academic career, due to the lack of depth and personal connections.

What does the speaker recommend for someone who wants a degree in Mathematics and likes the subject?

The speaker recommends that if someone's goal is just to have a degree in Mathematics and they enjoy the subject, they should pursue an online degree as it will provide them with knowledge in the field.

What are the two main advantages that traditional universities offer over online degree programs, according to the speaker?

The speaker believes that traditional universities tend to offer more opportunities for personal connections and experiences with others, as well as the chance to learn Mathematics beyond what is proposed in the curriculum.