K12 Online Learning By: Rajeeb Pradhan

What is online learning?  Online learning is a form of distance education, which is not restricted by time or location.  In online learning, “instruction and content are delivered primarily via the Internet”.  Many K-12 online learning programs in North American are referred to as virtual schools.

Classroom vs. Online Learning Classroom  Pros:  Provides interactive classroom setting that promotes the open exchange of ideas.  Cons:  passive learning dominates  Little emphasis placed on different learning styles and needs of students  Little emphasis placed on problem solving, critical thinking, and higher order learning skills Online  Pros:  Learning not confined by time or location  Information can be easily shared by teacher and student alike  Cons:  Due to changing technology, accessing specific learning environments might be a problem  Due to the newness of online learning, effective teaching methods may be questionable

Advantages of Online Learning  Course work can be scheduled around personal and professional schedule.  Course materials can be accessed at anytime or from any place with a computer and internet accessed, thus reducing travel time and cost.  Self-paced learning allows students to work at their own pace.  Students can join discussion groups or interact wit the instructor and or classmates remotely in “chat rooms.”  Through independent, small group, and large group learning activities, different learning styles are utilized to facilitate learning.  Develops computer and internet skill, which can be further utilized

Disadvantages of Online Learning  It might be difficult for students with poor study habits and/or are unmotivated.  It might take time to get use to the lack of structure and or routine (self-paced).  It might be isolating due to lack of face-to-face interaction and/or unavailability of the instructor on demand.  It might cause frustration for students with slow or unreliable internet connections.  It might involve a learning curve due to the learning software being used.  It might be difficult to simulate the traditional hands-on courses.

Best Practices for K12 Online Learning.  The principles and standards for best practices are similar to a classroom settings “based on the mutual emphasis placed on content area expertise, communication skills, and instructional design.”  Set clear learning goals and path  Use diverse modes of learning to meet student learning style and needs  Provide adequate time for practice and opportunities to master skills

Best Practices Continued  Provide prompt and constructive feedback  Provide “an optimal balance of challenge and support that is tailored to the individual students' readiness and potential.”  Provide a place for students post active and critical discussion  Provide questions that relate to students’ interests  Provide an effective learning experience  Provide a learning environment that supports and encourages inquiry

Best Practices Continued  Focus on the program. This goes beyond just posting the syllabus or course notes. You have to create a more effective learning experience.  For a successful implementation, various factors need to be considered.  Support resources for the program  Project plan (timeline)  Prioritizing programs (high impact)  Program design/redesign committee  Well developed pedagogy (uniqueness)  Set guidelines to measure success

Best Practices Continued  Faculty Support & Student Services: Success and quality of an online learning program is dependent on the faculty that teaches the course and the students it serves.  “Provide faculty with support in online technology and pedagogy so that they can focus on using the tools to enhance their interactivity with students.”  “Provide one-on-one instructional- design consultations along with staff- development classes that require faculty to experience online courses from the student perspective and to develop their own online courses.”  “Course materials must be available and easy to use, and students must have someone to call when they need technical help.”

Best Practices Continued  Goals & Measurement:  Have a measurable guideline set for quality and growth of the program.  Have set objectives to determine progress.

Best Practices for Teaching Online  Be present at the course site.  Create a supportive online course community.  Set and share clear guidelines and expectations for the course.  Use a variety of work experiences: individual, small group, and large group.  Ask for feedback and suggestions early in the program.  Prepare Discussion Posts that Invite Questions, Discussions, Reflections and Responses.  Focus on content resources and applications and links to current events and examples that are easily accessed from learner's computers.  Combine core concept learning with customized and personalized learning.  Plan a good closing and wrap activity for the course.

Best Practices for Student Success in K12 Online Learning  Read the syllabus and use it as a road map  Complete all assignments and turn them in on time  Carefully follow the online resources on a weekly basis  In every class session, assignment, and reading, find one new idea  Support and encourage classmates  Contribute to the discussion  Use your own experience in the discussion  Stay organized  Never procrastinate  Set long-term goals

CCSD Online Learning Environment: Programs  Programs and Classes:  American Government American Government  Biology College AlgebraBiologyCollege Algebra  College TrigonometryCollege Trigonometry  College Prep Reading and Writing College Prep Reading and Writing  Core Composition ICore Composition I  Core Composition II Core Composition II  GeographyGeography  GeologyGeology  Health Health  Personal Fitness I and IIPersonal Fitness I and II  United States HistoryUnited States History

CCSD Online Learning Environment: Structure  Designed to meet graduation requirements.  Classes follow a traditional school calendar.  Students can access the online course from any computer with internet access and a course address.  Students may work at their own pace as long as the assignments are posted by the specified due date.  Students are expected to spend 5 – 8 hours a day on their course work, but it may vary according to student choice/need.  Online courses are free, but if the student wants a college credit he/she must pay the amount necessary for the credit.

CCSD Online Learning Environment: Requirements for Students  Must take responsibility for his/her learning  Must be a self directed and self-disciplined learner  Must have internal motivation to manage his/her own learning  Must be able to read and follow detailed instructions  Must have a great command of written and oral communication skills  Must have a basic grasp of navigating the internet  Must have access to a computer with an internet and access.

CCSD Online Learning Environment: Expectations for Teachers  There are expectations for classroom teachers, but there wasn’t any expectations outlined for online learning.  Professional development also centers around classroom teachers.

Sites to Visit     ated ated  lated lated 

Bibliography  Center for Teaching and Learning, University of Maryland University College Best Practices in Online Learning Retrieved June 20,  Abel, Rob (Volume 28, November 3, 2005) Implementing Best Practices in Online Learning mplementingBestPracticesinOnl/ Retrieved June 20, mplementingBestPracticesinOnl/  Boettcher, J. V. (May 2011) Ten Best Practices for Teaching Online Retrieved June 20,  Wolfe, Cindy (December 17, 2009) 10 Ways to Ensure Distance Learning Success Retrieved June 20,  Cherry Creek School District: Online Learning Retrieved June 20,