Virtual Schooling Questions

1. How does virtual schooling help students?
The Florida Virtual School's motto is "Any time, any place, any path, any pace." I think that this is a good summary of how virtual schooling helps students. Students are allowed the option to complete assignments according to their own schedule (within certain deadlines). Also, they can participate in courses wherever they have access to a computer with internet capabilities. Virtual schools opens up other paths to learning, such as discussion boards with other students, access to topics that are interesting to each student, and interactions with students in other locations. Finally, students are able to work at their own pace. Again, there are certain time constraints; however, students can spend more time if they need it, or may move on to other topics, when they are ready.

2. Who benefits from virtual schooling?
Students: Because virtual schooling gives students so many options, learning can be tailored to each student's individual needs and interests. The student who needs more time to formulate responses can have more time. The student who wants to explore other topics related to the content is able to do so.
Teachers: Teachers benefit because they can use technology such as webcams, discussion boards, and online chats to reach students. Also, because lessons can be viewed online, teachers can reach more students in more locations at the same time.
The community: The community benefits because students are getting better access to the things that they need. Having greater education options for members of the community increases the likelihood that more students will complete their K-12 Education and leave school with more options for employment.

3. Have you participated in a distance education course?
I have not; however, I have thought about the benefits of taking online courses, especially for professional development. With a busy teaching schedule, it would be nice to be able to take a course that was flexible in meeting times so that you could work it around your other commitments.

4. What are the benefits of virtual schooling? Drawbacks?
The benefits of virtual schools include providing greater access and options for students, meeting the needs of more students and teachers, keeping more students in school and interested in learning, and allowing students to use technology to learn at their own pace. Drawbacks may be what to do if technology fails or is down for multiple days. Also, making sure that students are doing their own work on time and using what is available to them effectively could be an issue.