Virtual School- Is it the Right Fit?
Choosing a virtual school is a big decision, and it’s natural to wonder whether it’s the right fit for your child. While every student is different, most families find that success in an online learning environment comes down to a handful of key habits and traits. Before you enroll, it’s worth taking an honest look at how your student handles the qualities below and where they might need a little extra support along the way.
Traits of a Successful Student:
Basic understanding of technology
Students should be comfortable navigating around a computer and programs such as Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat Reader, and email, and be willing to learn additional programs such as applications in Google Drive.
Patience for the learning curve
Anything new takes time to get used to, and online learning is no exception. There are live and pre-recorded orientation sessions that aim to familiarize students and parents with the program. Our teachers also host daily or weekly office hours, and there are loads of resources available for the taking. It is only when students don’t take advantage of these things that their learning curve is prolonged and they end up falling behind or not completing the program. Patience and effort go a long way!
Good time-management skills
Students will need to develop a daily schedule that will include virtual class times with time to complete the lessons and assignments, along with obligations outside of school. Upon completion of this schedule, students will need to commit to following it.
Dedication
Students must be dedicated to their studies, their schedule, and doing their best. It will be vital that they read and follow directions, communicate questions, and be willing to keep working toward their educational goals, even if they are struggling and want to give up.
Organization
Students will need to be able to organize their physical and online workspace to create online folders, label and date things clearly, and know how to locate assignments, notes, and resources.
Check Student Email Daily
At WVL students and families are assigned a school email account that they must check daily.
No student needs to have all six of these traits mastered on day one. Most of them develop with practice, and WVL’s teachers and support staff are there to help students build these skills along the way. If this list feels like a good match for your child, or if you’re ready to learn more about what virtual school looks like day-to-day, reach out to our team or start your enrollment today.
*Developed by Stephanie Jankowski