Journal 10: Virtual Success (NETS-T 5)

Young, Julia (2009, Feb). Virtual Success: Transforming Education Through Online Learning. Learning & Leading with Technology, 36, Retrieved May 03, 2009, from http://www.learningandleading-digital.com/learning_leading/200902/

In the past ten years virtual schools have began to appear across the country. In these schools there are no classrooms and everything is done online and through virtual classrooms. These schools have reinvented the way in which teachers teach and students learn and use valuable 21st century skills. This type of school is so unique because it enables the student to learn at anytime, anywhere, and at any pace, while allowing the teacher to use innovative teaching techniques to individualize the learning experience.

It is said that the result of attending such a school is that students gain more learning-paced flexibility, more engaging material, and more individualized attention, while also engaging in necessary 21st century skills--critical thinking, collaboration, and global awareness. Florida Virtual School (FLVS) is a gleaming example of the positive effects of virtual schools on student achievement.

A 2007 report by Florida Taxwatch found that "students who were enrolled in online courses outperformed their peers in traditional schools... FLVS students consistently earned higher grades, received better state assessment scores, and achieved higher scores marks on Advanced Placement exams than students in traditional schools." This is a startling statistic that shows the need for educators to create innovative approaches to teaching and instruction that offers students a chance to learn and explore while incorporating 21st century skills.

Question 1: What are your thoughts on this article?

I think that virtual schools are probably effective, but I would wonder what affect these schools will have on the social aspect of children's lives. A big part of going to school is learning how to communicate and get along with others in your community. If we move from traditional schools toward virtual schools I think that it could be harmful to students' social lives.

Question 2: Would you be willing to become a virtual teacher?

I would not be willing to become a virtual teacher because I would miss the student/teacher relationship that can only be created and nurtured in a face to face and individualized encounter.