Published by Programme B
Even though many students in Ontario have happily adapted to online virtual learning either in full or as part of a hybridized system, many parents are still left wondering about the actual effectiveness of the virtual classroom.
The truth is that eLearning through a proper virtual high school can be as successful, or even more successful, than the programs at traditional day schools, especially if students are studying at an institution with a decade or more of virtual instructing experience.
In an effort to shine a bit more light on the situation, we’re outlining the top reasons why eLearning functions as well as traditional day school study, and how it can actually outpace it.
Flexibility Makes a Huge Difference
One of the greatest advantages to studying high school online is the flexibility to slow down or ramp up your study as necessary. Students who struggle with a particular subject can take upwards of an entire year to complete a credit, which means they have all the time they need to truly master the concepts.
Conversely, for courses that are exceptionally easy for them, they can complete credits in a month or two. This allows them to slow down or speed up as necessary, depending on their aptitude in a particular subject.
Furthermore, students concentrating on extracurricular activities or part-time jobs don’t have to study during the traditional 9 AM to 3 PM window. Online courses in Ontario from the right virtual high school allow for absolute flexibility, including evening and weekend study, which means that students don’t have to compromise their passions, and can work just as hard on completing volunteer hours or working on extracurricular such as dance or drama as they do on their schoolwork — without sacrificing either.
The ability to make one’s own schedule will ensure that a student is introduced to self-directed learning and time management skills early in their academic careers. This type of self-direction is actually an essential skill in both university study as well as the work world in general.
Student Support Systems are Key
Parents also need to remember that with any online learning comes the availability of teachers and guidance counselors. Some parents are under the misconception that students are completely left to their own devices, without a proper support system in place.
The truth is that with most virtual high schools, teachers are not only present to answer questions during and immediately after lessons, but that they also host dedicated office hours and round-the-clock email support. The right virtual high school understands that students might have issues with the interactive learning modules, which is why teachers will return assignments and test grades within 48 hours, maximizing the window for questions and answers.
The true success of virtual study has less to do with the fact that education is remote and much more to do with the support and resources on hand to help students navigate their classes.
Adaptability is a Top-Tier Skill
Because learning independently requires a strong work ethic, and the ability for students to take initiative and manage their time, they naturally develop soft skills alongside the hard knowledge gained through coursework. These soft skills will go a long way in helping students master the knowledge needed for post-secondary education or the work world — two areas where self-directed motivation will be key.
Because many postsecondary institutions mix online classes with those taking place in a traditional classroom setting, and with the number of remote jobs in many fields continuing to grow, self-driven students who master the skills outlined above will have a major advantage over their peers as they apply to academic and professional positions down the line.
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