【答案解析】On-line course (also called distance learning) are a hot new trend in education. The number of colleges and schools that offer their programs on the web is on the rise. (At the university level, they cost the same as traditional classes and require similar weekly assignments and textbook reading; the difference is in the form of class participation). Generally, students congregate on-line throughout each week to explore topics with the professor, but these discussions occur "asynchronously" rather than in real time. You read others' comments on the web and post your own whenever you get a chance. Written assignments are posted; you e-mail in your work. Periodically, you're required to take a proctored exam in order to receive degree credit. Career-boosting programs such as business administration and information technology programs are the most popular, but you'll also find a variety of liberal arts offerings, from film theory to medieval history and foreign language study. Given the fact that on-line courses greatly benefit busy people and often sparks students interest and involvement, a growing number of elite universities, including Fudan University, Stanford University in America, etc. , are beginning to offer on-line courses.