This is my first time taking an online class and although I
find it challenging, there are definitely some advantages to online
learning. I found an article called
“Credit Recovery Programs Combine the Best of Online and In-Class Instruction”. It is by Lisa Plummer from THE Journal from
March of this year. Plummer describes
the advantages of online programs designed to help students make up credits so
that they are able to graduate high school.
Until recently, schools have provided summer school, Saturday
school or evening lessons for credit recovery.
There are logistical challenges such as providing staff and security
during odd hours that are not needed for online programs. From a budget standpoint, it is an appealing
option.
Keisha Kidan is the virtual learning program coordinator for
the Chicago Public Schools. She says in
the article, "We wouldn't be able to offer
enough courses for every student who needs to recover a credit without an
online program." CPS now uses this
type of program at half of their 122 high schools.
The programs
usually include pretests and posttests and students progress through their own
pace. The best programs offer
interactive multimedia content to keep students engaged. They also use mentors to make sure the
students have support.
At this point, data is anecdotal but many districts are
enthusiastic about these types of programs.
I think that this type of learning would work well for
someone that doesn’t feel comfortable having to “put themselves out there” by
speaking up in class or by posting to an online forum. Although our textbook reading talked about
how students may feel more comfortable discussing online than in person, there
is also the fear of being judged when you post something online. Say something briefly in class and many
people will forget it. Post it online and it is permanent. This may cause certain students to feel
anxiety about posting in a group online class.
Plummer, L. (March
2012) Credit Recovery Programs Combine
the Best of Online and In-Class Instruction.
THE Journal. Retrieved June 8, 2012 from
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