Journal # 3
Virtual Schools as Hotbeds of Reform by Anita McAnear
Learning & Leading with Technology, September/October 2007

The Education Sector has published a new report, entitled, ‘Laboratories of Reform: Virtual High Schools and Innovation in Public Education’. The report claims that online learning is the new model for school reform. The schools researched provided students with additional programs, college prep or credit recovery, rather than all on-line classes. Syllabuses and all other information are posted on-line. Students are required to go on-line once a day to meet all requirements. Teachers are required to provide feedback within 24 hours. Students have the option of having a highly interactive program or one that is self-paced. The report offers educators many ideas to enhance their program and policy ideas. The survey concluded that 75% of teachers considered on-line teaching improved student participation and independent learning.

What are the benefits of virtual schools?

There are many benefits to virtual schools, for example, students in rural areas are given the advantage of accessing a wider range of courses, which are provided to wealthier communities. Students could apply to take AP courses not offered by their district. Disabled or sick children are given the benefit of studying while receiving hospital treatment. Home schooled children are able to take additional courses that their parents feel unqualified to teach. School drop outs and migrant workers are also targeted by virtual schools.

What are the disadvantages of virtual schools?

Virtual schools do not enable students to benefit from socialization skills and students only realize this after completing their course work. Virtual school students are encouraged to participate in other social activities, such as social clubs and the church. Virtual schools do not always guarantee that their teachers are licensed and therefore the standard of education might be inferior.