Students
choose virtual school for a number of reasons: flexible schedules, Advanced
Placement courses, convenience, loss of credit, etc. Virtual school can vary
between full-time online courses and blended courses, partially face-to-face
and partially online. Students are able to complete all of their required
courses online or have the ability to select just one or two online courses.
One of
my myths has been busted, maybe. I’m still a little skeptical. One of my
thoughts was that virtual learning would hinder children’s social development.
According to NACOL, students not only complete assignments but also are able to
socialize with their peers and adults at home and in the community. However, this is typically for students
taking only one or two courses online and additional courses in a traditional
classroom setting.
Another
myth that I found interesting was that online courses are not only for gifted
and talented students. According to NACOL, online schools have worked well with
at-risk, English Learners and special needs students. Again, having worked with
these learners, I would have to see it to believe it. I can understand if these
students are supplementing their instruction via virtual learning instead of completing
full-time online learning courses.
If you're able to differentiate your instruction, online courses are most definitely possible for students of all levels. For example, the middle school summer school program is an hybrid learning experience. Students are in front of a teacher for one week, then have 4 or 5 online, then end the program for one week in front of a teacher. Students are required to partake in math and language arts courses. The students at my building at high risk, 98% free and reduced lunch, majority english language learners, and many are students with disabilities. For the most part, students are successful in the program.
ReplyDeleteThat is surprising that even with 98% of students who receive free and reduced lunch have access to a computer, Internet, etc. Being a kindergarten teacher, it's hard for me to visualize implementing an online program with 5 year old students. Everything that we have read and explored have been geared toward middle and high school students. I would like to know more about how it works with a lower elementary classroom.
ReplyDeleteJuliana
ReplyDeleteYou are not alone I thought that online learning hindered social skills too. I think years ago when it wasn't as popular that is what the experts were saying. Now I think it's more common and more accepted and people are learning to balance online learning with social programs for children. And also with so much social media they have opportunities to socialize that way.
I agree that it is more common and accepted. By socializing I think of verbal socialization, learning to share, learning what is acceptable behavior with your peers. I don't see young children learning those skills online.
ReplyDeleteFor the hybrid summer program the school library is open a few hours a day to compensate for the students who do not have access to the internet at home.
ReplyDeleteI'm not familiar with virtual schooling for K-5. I would be curious to see how that would work with little Kindergartners or First Graders.