Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct answer to each of the questions fr...

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct answer to each of the questions from 31 to 40.

The archetype of the university as a physical sanctuary of learning, characterized by hallowed lecture halls and bustling campuses, is undergoing a profound metamorphosis. In its place, the "Digital University" is emerging not merely as a supplementary tool, but as a standalone institution offering 100% online degrees. [I] This paradigm shift is driven by the urgent need to democratize education, removing geographic and financial barriers that have historically excluded vast demographics. Unlike traditional correspondence courses, these modern digital entities utilize sophisticated AI-driven platforms to deliver personalized, asynchronous learning experiences that rival, and occasionally surpass, face-to-face instruction.

Proponents of this model argue that the flexibility of digital universities aligns perfectly with the demands of the modern workforce. In a rapidly evolving economy, the ability to update curricula in real-time is paramount. [II] Traditional universities often struggle with bureaucratic inertia, whereas digital platforms can integrate the latest developments in fields like data science or artificial intelligence within weeks. Furthermore, the digital format allows for a diverse, global student body to collaborate, fostering a unique cross-cultural exchange that is physically impossible in a localized brick-and-mortar setting.

Despite these advantages, the transition is not without controversy. However, a pervasive stigma lingers regarding the validity of these credentials, with critics arguing that the absence of face-to-face interaction compromises the development of essential soft skills. Employers frequently question whether a graduate who has never navigated a physical classroom possesses the interpersonal nuances required for leadership roles. [III] There is also the looming specter of academic dishonesty, as remote assessments can be more susceptible to fraud than proctored, on-site examinations. Consequently, the fear that digital degrees might be viewed as "second-class" credentials remains a significant hurdle for widespread acceptance.

To mitigate these concerns, digital universities are increasingly adopting rigorous accreditation standards and hybrid verification technologies. [IV] Blockchain technology is being employed to create tamper-proof credentials, while virtual reality is being tested to simulate immersive social interactions. As these technologies mature, the dichotomy between "real" and "online" universities is expected to blur. The ultimate measure of a degree’s value will likely shift from the prestige of the institution's architecture to the verifiable competency of its graduates.

(Adapted from Times Higher Education)

Question 31. What is the primary argument used by critics against the digital university model?

A. The tuition fees are significantly higher than traditional universities.

B. The technology used is too complex for the average student to master.

C. The lack of in-person interaction hinders soft skill development.

D. The curriculum is updated too frequently for students to keep up.