Right now, parents nationwide are questioning the efficacy of online education. As parents, students, and teachers struggle with switching from in-person school to online education or a hybrid, the question seems very valid. The short answer is yes. Online education can be as good as in-person education.
Online education is not a new phenomenon. The first online classes began as early as 1982 in California with the Western Behavioral Sciences Institute. The field of online learning has been advancing ever since.
Challenges of Online Learning
It would be nice to say that all students thrive with online classes; however, that is not the case. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to learning that works for every student, whether online or in-person. Some individuals will do well, some will flourish and thrive, and some will struggle – the same as with in-person classes.
When the instructors have the proper training for teaching online courses, are familiar with the challenges, and are working on sufficient platforms, online learning can be quite effective. Virtual learning with highly qualified, experienced teachers can often lead to student success in elementary and high school level education.
In-person education must be varied and inclusive of all learning styles to be the most effective. The same is true of online learning. Students learn through different pathways. Identifying the most appropriate path for an individual student is the key to successful online learning. Wisconsin Virtual Learning offers students a variety of learning pathways.
Motivation, Skill, and Flexibility
There are significant differences between online and in-person instruction. Teachers who have experience and training in online education are acutely aware of these differences and address them. Motivating students to perform well with their studies is one. In-class motivation comes from interactions with the instructor and peer pressure from other students as well. Online learning may not have that competitive component; therefore, instructors need to find more creative ways to motivate students.
The skills needed to teach online classes are also essential. Some teachers will do better in a classroom, while others will take naturally to the online environment. A teacher skilled in virtual education will be more effective at teaching students online than one who is new to the field or finds it challenging to master.
Online learning can offer flexibility that may not be available in a traditional classroom. Students learn at different paces, and it may be difficult for some to maintain the conventional classroom pace. It is a known fact that some gifted students who learn at a faster rate can be disruptive in the school, as can students lagging. Online learning with individualized student interactions eliminates these issues and helps students learn at their unique pace.
There will always be traditional classrooms; however, online learning is also here to stay. Your child may be one of those who do very well with virtual learning. Why not contact Wisconsin Virtual Learning today for more information about online learning. With 15 years of virtual education experience, WVL has the answers you need about your child’s online learning journey.