Online Learning August 16, 2012
Benefits / Barriers to Students Keystone prep Customized instruction: A range of differentiation previously unavailable Address needs that public school could not previously meet…school phobic, other behavioral issues, etc. Wider range of offerings Students may not have technology or internet Students may not be able to work unsupervised Unsupervised students could pose a safety risk Parents could contribute to work and misrepresent student achievement
Measures of Success… look fors Students “pass” classes Scores increase on standardized tests Student enrollment in online courses has increased They can they later engage in real life situations
Benefits / Barriers to Teachers Differentiation Unlimited review RTSD can run and control their own summer school offerings Teacher can fit experiences such as simulations that may not otherwise fit in the school day Flexible scheduling Teachers learn new skills Job security…fewer enrollment shifts with online opportunities Teacher, student and parent training Start up can be time consuming Teacher buy-in regarding value of course Replicating some classroom experiences
Measures of Success… look fors Feedback from RTEA Keystone exams scores have increased therefore teacher evaluation has benefitted A waiting list of teachers wanting to facilitate online courses Opportunity to work with highly motivated students who want to work beyond what can fit into a school day
Benefits / Barriers to Administrators Can serve a broader range of needs with a higher rate of success Better awareness of what is being “taught” it the classroom Reduced need for homebound instruction Cost savings through reduction of outplacements Eliminates some attendance issues More work Need to realign expectations for instruction Educating parents Managing parallel systems
Measures of success….look fors Participation rates on standardized assessments Reduced stress Scores increase Alleviate some budgetary concerns
Benefits / Barriers to Technology Teachers could become more comfortable with technology and eventually require less support Deployment Training Remote tech support for students Supporting teachers in new technologies