After reading the articles for this weeks assignments, it seems like most of my assumptions about virtual schooling were correct. It seems that I missed out on a couple of things, however. First, I didn't mention anything about funding. It seems like most schools are self-funded, but some virtual schools do come out of school districts. The virtual school funding just vary by state laws and parents would have to look up information and whether or not tuition is involved.
Another issue is regulation. States do not really regulate curriculum of virtual schools, so it's really up to the parents and students to make sure students have the right amount of math credits, science credits, etc. if they wish to apply to college. Some school districts may have their virtual schools align to their school districts, but again this varies to whether or not the school district is funding the virtual school (and even if they are, some tuition still may be involved) and whether or not the state requires certain standards (in most cases, it seems like they do not). Although virtual schooling is a great option, parents and students will have to do their research together. Virtual schools do offer a wide arrange of courses, and it's really a matter of research and especially when children get to the high school level, making sure they are taking appropriate prep courses to get into the college of their choice.
The state of online education is definitely a work-in-progress. However, I'm not only excited for this change - I am embracing it. I don't know how you feel about the manner, but I would've absolutely loved the idea of online courses when I was in high school. I would've definitely preferred a blended-learning type situation, but having the option of learning on my own schedule would've simplified my life quite a bit.
ReplyDeleteI would've definitely taken the option of at least blended learning as well in high school since I would have preferred interacting with friends in group projects and activities, especially at that age.
DeleteI agree with Shaun, Erica I would have loved to at least had the option of choosing some online classes to fit into my schedule while I worked in High School. I am not sure how effective I would have been in K-8 classes but I think if my parents were there to guide me and keep me focused I would have been fine. I also embrace the idea. At the school I taught at all the online classes had to meet the districts standards and fit into each students program just like any other class.
ReplyDeleteI think if I had a supplemental online math course in my middle school years online, I could have been a stronger math student in the long run. I would've loved it also if I could have taken a class or two online since I was super busy, especially in high school. I think students should take advantage of the online courses if it's available to them.
DeleteHi Erica. Great points. I am pretty confused regarding funding. I know at my school our Blended Program is just another option and the teachers that cover it and myself get paid by the same way we usually do. I especially liked your points regarding the work that parents and students have to do regarding the credits. I know you mentioned the parents and student but I think the teacher should be part of that equation. The teacher should also be versed in the requirments for their students. At my school, we only go to 8th grade so our Blended Lab is for 7th and 8th graders so credit isn't really a concern of ours. However, we are starting a Blended High School as well so your point will have to be thought of and addressed.
ReplyDeleteThe teachers should definitely be a part of it. Parents and students can get confused about requirements. Teachers and even school counselors need to jump in and guide students about certain graduation requirements and requirements to get in for college. The blended learning system will definitely have to be addressed since it's not going away. It's really the way schools are starting to move toward learning.
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