Why Online Learning Growth of Online Learning 25

Why Online Learning?

Growth of Online Learning Ø 25 states have state virtual schools operating in 2013 -2014. Ø 29 states and Washington, DC have statewide full-time online schools operating in 2013 -14 Ø There were an estimated 1, 816, 400 enrollments in distance-education courses in K 12 school districts in 2009 -2010. Ø As of 2012 -2013, the number of students has grown to 310, 000.

Growth of Online Learning

Advantages to Online Learning College & Career Readiness Ø Students acquire skills needed to be successful in college and career. Ability to Move at Individual Pace Ø Students can move at an accelerated or extended pace Ø Content Mastery Asynchronous learning Ø Anytime, any place students have computer and access to the Internet. Access to more courses Ø 90 core/elective courses Ø 11 College Board Approved AP Courses Ø Over 100 Dual Credit course through regionally accredited colleges and universities.

Student Skill Development (21 st Century Skills) Ø Attention to Detail Ø Online Communication and Collaboration Ø Critical Thinking Ø Independent Learning Ø Initiative, Self-Direction, Motivation Ø Organizational Skills Ø Problem Solving and Adaptability Ø Productivity and Accountability Ø Resourcefulness Ø Technology Proficiency Ø Time Management

College Preparedness Acquire skills necessary to achieve success in college. Ø More than 2, 700 colleges offer online courses. Ø Your students will have opportunities to take online courses while in college. Earn college credit while still in high school. Ø College Board approved AP courses. Ø Dual credit courses through regionally accredited Christian colleges. More course options. Ø Electives such as : § 5 Foreign Languages § ACT/SAT Prep

Living in a Digital World

THE JOURNEY: WHY 21 st CENTURY SKILLS? “We are currently preparing students for jobs that don’t exist, using technologies that haven’t been invented in order to solve problems we don’t even know are problems yet. ” -Karl Fisch, “Did You Know”

Rise of the Virtual Workplace

Setting Realistic Expectations Ø Online courses are as rigorous or more rigorous than traditional courses. Ø Students and parents must understand the time commitment. Ø Parents have a role. Ø Understanding the role of the instructors.

Online Learning Engages Students Ø Online, threaded discussions are required to add depth to the learning and create critical thinkers Ø Real world examples and web sites are used (like NASA) to make learning relevant Ø Assessments are done in many ways to ensure true learning Ø The Bible, great Christian thinkers and web sites are used to engage students with God’s viewpoints

Online Course Catalog Ø Provides view level access to all of the online courses. Ø Access to all course content and assignments (doesn’t include access to assessments such as quizzes and tests). Ø Review required materials, syllabus, sample pace charts for each course. Ø Please contact your school’s online program coordinator to request instructions relative to accessing the online course catalog.

Christian Mission Alignment Ø Online courses with Biblical integration built to teach a Christian worldview and develop critical thinking as followers of Jesus Christ. Ø Courses facilitated by Christian teachers that are subject matter experts. Ø Our desire is to glorify God and encourage students to become leaders as disciples of Christ. Ø Online courses that are rigorous and exceed all national standards and recommendations.

What Christian School Administrators are Saying About Online Learning • "What excites me about online learning in 2014 is the opportunity to enhance our curriculum and create a more individualized education program for all learners. " - Lillie Mc. Clure, Harvest Prep • "I'm excited about opportunities students have through online learning, especially for schools in countries where the social situation is not stable or in the regions touched by natural disasters. Students can still be educated through online learning. " - Vjaceslavs Matvjevs, International Christian School (HK) • "Online courses allow us to offer a broader spectrum of classes to appeal to a variety of our students’ interests. " - Karen Brooks, Gaston Christian

What Students are Saying About Online Learning Ø “I want to take an online course because I can move at my own pace. It will help me be able to learn more by being able to move faster and I can adjust it to my schedule when I need to. I can repeat things I don't understand move faster over things I do understand. ” Ø “I've switched into online school for a multitude of reasons. The most influential being my introversive qualities. I'm determined to complete high school with flashing colors, and online classes help by excluding classroom distractions. ” Ø “School has always come pretty easy to me. I think taking online classes will give me more of a feel for the college experience and help me prepare for that kind of atmosphere, which is my ultimate goal. ” Ø "I am taking online courses because it provides me with a sense of independence. This is crucial for me because it will benefit me in college as it gives me that nature of self learning and discipline. ”

Online Learning… • Transforms Education & Helps Students Create Their Own Futures as Disciples of Jesus Christ. • Produces critical thinkers, 21 st century Christian leaders, and responsible members of a global community. • Enables students to acquire the skills that are vital to their success and productivity in college and career.

Why Take Online Courses? • We offer more than 90 courses for 6 -12 thgrade, as well as over 200 Dual Credit courses from regionally accredited Christian Colleges and Universities. • Our courses are rigorous and exceed all national standards and recommendations. • Our staff desires to glorify Christ, teach students how to process information, and think critically in the context of a Biblical worldview.

Why Take Online Courses? • Students who seek academic excellence with a Christian worldview will also discover a flexible learning environment where nurturing teachers provide wonderful living models for young hearts and minds. • Students receive a well-rounded and personalized educational experience, becoming independent thinkers well prepared for college and beyond.

Blog Articles to Share with Your School Families Obtaining 21 st Century Skills via Online Learning Should Christian School Leaders Mandate Online Courses? The Rising Importance of Digital Literacy for Students Why it Makes Sense to Encourage Students to Take Online Dual Credit Courses • 10 Skills that Students can Develop in Online Courses • •

QUESTIONS