Ask people ten years ago and they'd say that they considered online learning to be less respectable than traditional learning in brick and mortar buildings. Now, it is a viable option for many students providing them with the flexibility to learn on their own terms. Susan Patrick, president and chief executive of the International Association for K-12 Online Learning (iNACOL) says that the acceptance has grown. "More and more parents and students are aware that we live in the internet age, and they want access to educational opportunities, whether they're offered over the internet or not."
Many people think of online learning and they quickly disregard it since their children won't have interaction with their peers. However, they're mistaken. Students interact with teachers and their peers on a daily basis. They participate in group work and collaboration. Advocates of online education say that the biggest benefit is that it prepares students for a world where life is not structured in class periods and adults increasingly communicate electronically, work remotely, and meet virtually.
Once more parents realize that online learning isn't just a fad, more virtual schooling programs will emerge across the U.S. ultimately offering students a different and broader environment to learn in.
Thanks to support from K12 Inc., this special report is available now to all educators at eSchool News Online
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