Online Learning in K-12 Schools

1. Online Learning in K-12 Schools Douglas S. Gauld Walden University Rachel Bordelon EDUC-6715I-9 New and Emerging Technologies March 25, 2011

8. Yes, but… “ Doesn’t setting up online learning require advanced computer skills?” No. Many online Learning Modules are easy to use, requiring the same skills as popular word-processing, presentation, and browsing software. YouTube is a great source for tutorials on how to install and use these programs. (Image Source: http://thumbs.dreamstime.com/thumblarge_328/1225469039Ou1LyM.jpg) No. Many online Learning Modules are easy to use, requiring the same skills as popular word-processing, presentation, and browsing software. YouTube is a great source for tutorials on how to install and use these programs.

9. Yes, but… “ What is this going to cost?” Although large-scale online learning ventures may need more sophisticated hosting through pay services, teachers can easily create classes using services like Moodle or Rcampus for free. (Image Source: http://thumbs.dreamstime.com/thumblarge_328/1225469039Ou1LyM.jpg)

10. Yes, but… “ What if my students do not have computer or Internet access?” (Image Source: http://thumbs.dreamstime.com/thumblarge_328/1225469039Ou1LyM.jpg) (Image Source: http://www.ebr.lib.la.us/teens/images/computer%20monitor%20and%20books%20use%20this%20one.jpg) Access can still be still a problem in the United States. Some students can get online at local public libraries or using school computers. Unfortunately, every case is different, so accommodations must be tailored to individual circumstances. Access can still be still a problem in the United States. Some students can get online at local public libraries or using school computers. Unfortunately, every case is different, so accommodations must be tailored to individual circumstances.

11. Yes, but… “ Can e-learning courses be accredited?” Many systems have already developed fully accredited e-learning courses that meet the standards for their regions. And, according to Cavanaugh and Clark (2007) organizations such as the Council for Trans-Regional Accreditation are developing standards for inter-region accreditation. (Image Source: http://thumbs.dreamstime.com/thumblarge_328/1225469039Ou1LyM.jpg) (Image Source: http://www.stcsig.org/canadian/images/UniversityCap_Diploma.jpg)

12. Yes, but… Students who do well with online learning possess many of the same characteristics as their successful peers in brick-and-mortar settings: motivation, discipline, and academic skill. Students with abstract reasoning and reflective observation skills seem to do better than those who require hands-on experience and experimentation (Cavanaugh & Clark, 2007). “ Can my students handle e-learning?” Students who do well with online learning possess many of the same characteristics as their successful peers in brick-and-mortar settings: motivation, discipline, and academic skill. Students with abstract reasoning and reflective observation skills seem to do better than those who require hands-on experience and experimentation (Cavanaugh & Clark, 2007). (Image Source: http://thumbs.dreamstime.com/thumblarge_328/1225469039Ou1LyM.jpg) (Image Source: http://www.stcsig.org/canadian/images/UniversityCap_Diploma.jpg)

13. Yes, but… “ What about those students who need more supervision and concrete experience?” Improvements in technology will increasingly address these limitations. Meanwhile, teachers can help students thrive in online learning environments by designing highly structured courses in which collaboration, communication, project and problem-based learning, and learning tools like virtual manipulatives and video conferencing help keep students focused and involved. (Image Source: http://thumbs.dreamstime.com/thumblarge_328/1225469039Ou1LyM.jpg)