I learned a wealth of things from the reading that really did surprise me. First, that in the 1930's Educational Radio was the original virtual learning tool. Next, that in the internet's humble beginnings it should not surprise me that education jumped on the band wagon. It has proven to be a vast medium and the growth potential is still exponential. This weeks readings expanded my knowledge of Virtual Learning and validated some of the things I already knew.
The Clark study revealed the fact that Virtual K-12 has been around since 1995. To me the internet still seemed pretty wild and wooly - a vast, unharnessed and uncharted place back then. My first job that involved daily computer use was in 1993. As an undergrad I was just beginning to use the internet for some of my research papers and on-line classes were something I knew nothing about.
Reviewing all the data on Michigan over the course of the studies proved to be very interesting as well. I have to say that I felt a sense of pride learning that Michigan has been a pioneer in the Virtual K-12 arena. Seeing the growth in courses offered and teachers employed, albeit part-time, but none the less, employed in the Virtual K-12 field proved to be very revealing.
I also found the "on-line class requirement" for K-12 students to be interesting. It does make perfect sense though. Students need exposure to this type of learning because it brings about a different type of critical thinking and a different type of learning experience. Reading through the myths proved a point as well. Socio economics do not necessarily mean that poorer districts do not have the same access to technology. Perhaps it is not available in the home but, many of the schools strive to provide it for the students.
Home schooling has proven successful over the years. I cannot see any reason why full time virtual K-12 schools will not experience the same success. Funding will always be an issue debated in education forever. There may not be a perfect solution. If the means used to educate children guarantee that everyone has access to the best opportunity available to them then it cannot be bad.
I was surprised as well to read that the virtual schooling began in 1995. I can recall in high school learning how to use "Google" and the Internet. Everything seemed so new and interesting, yet complicated. I could not have imagined trying to figure out computers alongside learning Calculus! However, now that I know a lot more about computers, online courses provide an amazing opportunity for all!
ReplyDeleteSusan, I felt good about reading that Michigan has been a pioneer in online learning too. That's certainly something to be proud about, and I was just reading that Michigan has been very influential in establishing guidelines for successful online learning experiences.
ReplyDeleteRegina, thanks. It is about time that we start reading good things about Michigan. In my travels I get asked often - so how bad is it in Michigan. I remind people of all the good things and how we have always been hanging in there and now here is another positive that most people aren't aware of!
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