Distance+Education+and+Virtual+Schooling

Posted by Krista Parker 1. In your opinion, what do you see as the issues that impact distance education and virtual schooling? This week's articles were very intersting to me. I know that I am taking on-line classes and am seeing success but I have always been concerned with the amount of self-discipline one must have to complete this type of education. I am dealing with a situation where a studen might be facing distance learning and I am not sure that it would be a right choice for her. This young girl is not self-motivating and really does not see the importance of an education. I fear that distance learning is a way out of providing her with a fulfilling education, but it might be her only choice. I fear that she will not receive the supports she would if she was receiving her education in the typical maner.

Another issue that I see with distance learning/virtual schooling is the lack of social interactions. I see the effects that some would say come from texting or emailing. One looses the interactions with others and thus looses the skill to appropriate interact with others. They don't learn how to communicate effectively as well as don't learn how to solve problems with others. These are still important skills needed for the work place, but for some they truly are areas of struggle.

2. What are the benefits of distance education and virtual schooling? The benefits of distance leraning/virtual schooling is that you can complete the work/assignments at your own leisure. You have complete control over when and where you complete the work. Also for students who are credit difficient, it is a way to make up those credits and still graduate with their orginial classmates.

3. Would you see yourself teaching in a distance education or virtual schooling classroom?

I am not sure whether I would teach in this type of environment. I see the dedication it takes being a student in distance learning I can only imagine the amount of time and effort it takes on the part of the instructor. Also I feel that I am growing a computer as an extra appendage. Everything I do in my job as an Intervention Specialist revolves around the computer, either researching, developing new innovative ways to provide instruction, you name it I have to do it on the computer. For me, I enjoy interacting face-to-face, getting to know the people I am in class with. I feel that I really learn more hearing the stories of others experiences that you really can't get on-line.

4. Finally, what do you see for distance education and virtual schooling in the future? I see this as an up and coming choice for many students, especially those who really don't like the traditional setting of schools. I fear that in the future a student won't have the option of getting the traditional education, they (the powers that be) will be forced to receive their education through this method. I also fear what our society will become when we no longer have those social interactions that one learns so much from. I do have hope that this mode of education will develop and grow into more of an interactive devise that one can use to expand their knowledge as well as their connection in their lifes. We are only in the beginning development stage who knows what lies in the future?

P﻿ osted by: Erin O'Bernier After viewing the websites and articles for this week, there are a few issues that I can see that would impact distance education and virtual schooling. One obvious issue is the social implications of distance/virtual schooling. If students receive the majority if not all, of their schooling through online resources, then how will they develop social skills? This is often an issue raised with homeschooling as well. If children are not required to work face-to-face with others, then how will these social skills develop? However, the majority of the sources state that complete virtual schooling will not be part of the immediate future. Blending seems to be popular idea, in which students spend some time in a “traditional” classroom setting and some time participating in online courses. Another major issue was raised in the article “The Virtual Classroom Redefines Education.” This article mentions that when it comes to distance education and virtual schooling “adequate training and screening for virtual teachers becomes a crucial part of the package.” A teacher cannot be expected to create a thriving online environment without guidance and training. Schools need to consider this a top priority before online schooling can become farther engrained into the curriculum.
 * 1. In your opinion, what do you see as the issues that impact distance education and virtual schooling? **

I think there are quite a few benefits to these methods of schooling. For example, the article “The Virtual Classroom Redefines Education” states “thanks to the anytime, anywhere nature of online courses, students with a range of special circumstances (from health issues to job or family constraints) don’t have to fall behind or drop out. One students mentioned in the article was competitively involved in figureskating. Online courses gave her the flexibility she needed to succeed in both her classes and her studies. Many of us enrolled in this course are enjoying the benefits of online classes. We appreciate the flexibility of the schedule, and are still able to enjoy an invigorating curriculum, support from the instructor, and interaction with fellow classmates.
 * 2. What are the benefits of distance education and virtual schooling? **

I really hadn’t thought about teaching in a distance education or virtual schooling classroom until reviewing the various sources for this week’s assignment. I think that I am open to the idea, but I would definitely need more training before I would feel comfortable enough to actually teach one. Also, teaching a foreign language involves a lot of direct communication, so I think that there would be many challenges to fostering second language acquisition online. I noticed that one teacher was doing this in the article we read, but I would need to explore this option further before I would be convinced of its effectiveness. I like the flexibility of online schooling and the opportunity to get to know the students perhaps a little more personally through one-on-one communication. However, I have a similar concern to one that was expressed in the article “Online Education Is a New Way of Learning—and Teaching.” This article warns that “dawn-to-dusk (and beyond) access is great for students but can be all consuming for the online teacher.” Before I consider teaching online, I want to make sure that I would have a plan for this situation. Other than these few concerns, I am open to the idea.
 * <span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; font-size: 90%;">3. Would you see yourself teaching in a distance education or virtual schooling classroom? **

<span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; font-size: 90%;">As many of our articles stated, I think that the future will include a “blending” of distance education and virtual schooling with more “traditional” methods. Our society places a lot of value on personal interaction, and no one would disagree that some subjects and material are enhanced by physical interaction with the teacher or professor and other classmates. At the same time, having the nature and flexibility of online courses will improve many students’ educational experience. Finally, I would have to say that I would agree with the following excerpt from the NACOL article: “blended learning combines online delivery of educational content with the best features of classroom interaction and live instruction to personal learning, allow thoughtful reflection, and differentiate instruction from student to students across a diverse group of learners.” We may very well start to see blending become a core component of future school curricula across the nation. <span style="color: #00805e; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; font-size: 90%;">Amy's response: I do agree that more blended courses are the future of distance education. Blended courses take the best of both worlds student-centered learning (online) but also include actual teacher instruction. Many courses that exist today already utilize online course management systems, but don't necessarily use for distance education. It is more for organization of material rather than distance learning. <span style="color: #160080; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; font-size: 90%;">﻿Krista's response: I agree that "blending" of distance education/virtual schooling with the more traditional is the way that distance education wil become in the future. I believe that by incorporating these types of education together student's will be able to overcome some challenges that one faces with a total on-line education. They receive the interactions with others through pod-casts, or other ways of incorporating the face-to-face (social interactions) with the virutal interactions. These two combine provide instruction in various ways therefore reaching different learning styles.
 * <span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; font-size: 90%;">4. Finally, what do you see for distance education and virtual schooling in the future? **

Posted by: Funda Ergulec In your opinion, what do you see as the issues that impact distance education and virtual schooling? The first issue that I see in distance education is instructors and students readiness such as technological skills and knowledge about distance education and virtual schooling. An effective distance education takes more time than a traditional education for both teachers and students expect. Secondly, accessibility is another issue for both students and instructors so I think digital divide is an important issue for distance education. Third, it is a new education system and is still developing so it is expected to have some people who resist change.

What are the benefits of distance education and virtual schooling? There are some benefits besides many challenges of distance education such as intense participation, increased opportunities for learning, flexibility for instructor and student, and increased access. For example, even shyest person in an online class write something in the discussion board. Online courses are also cost savings; students do not need to pay parking fees or gasoline. According to my own experiences, I can say that with the right teaching strategies and carefully designing and delivering, I learn more in online classes.

Would you see yourself teaching in a distance education or virtual schooling classroom? I would see myself teaching in distance education because my research interest is on distance education. Also, I would like to benefit online education such as flexibility, increased access and participation.

Finally, what do you see for distance education and virtual schoolin﻿g in the future? With these different kinds of technological tools, I see distance education will be a big part of education system. I believe that online training course for the new and current instructors will have an important impact in the future. I think training for online instructors would increase their readiness and self-confidence while helping them to remove possible challenges and barriers. Krista's response: I wonder if my opinion of distance learning would change if I had more instruction on how to utilize such devices as Blackboard more effectively? I constantly feel as though there must be an easier way of navigating through the system. I never truly feel comfortable with what is going on in my classes. Each class/professor uses Blackboard a little differently so I feel as though all I do in hunt through the system looking for my assignments. I always feel as though I am forgetting something because I have to remember where that particular professor places the information.

POSTED BY: Dustin Shell <span style="font: 13px/19px Arial; letter-spacing: 0px; margin: 0px;">**In your opinion, what do you see as the issues that impact distance education and virtual schooling?** <span style="font: 13px/19px Arial; letter-spacing: 0px; margin: 0px;">Distance education and virtual schooling is still fairly new, and while its proven itself effective in learning and making a profit, there are several issues that still remain. First, because technology is the medium for the message, the level of technical proficiency is much higher, both in regard to technical skill and strategies of use. Second, there is a lot of debate around online assessment and proof of work. Finally, on a broader scope there is no ‘proven’ model of distance education to follow. Schools are still developing their own methods and models of virtual schooling with no umbrella standardization - this may cause more issues as time goes on.

<span style="font: 13px/19px Arial; letter-spacing: 0px; margin: 0px;">**What are the benefits of distance education and virtual schooling?** <span style="font: 13px/19px Arial; letter-spacing: 0px; margin: 0px;">As much of the reading indicated, online education has proven itself as effective, if not more effective than traditional face-to-face education. Specific benefits include, greater opportunity for student-student, student-faculty and student-content interactions, timely relevant feedback, closer community and more thoughtful instructional design and effective use of technology. For administrators, distance education is literally a cash cow, because of the higher retention rates and the fact that adjunct faculty typically teach the courses instead of full-time faculty.

<span style="font: 13px/19px Arial; letter-spacing: 0px; margin: 0px;">**Would you see yourself teaching in a distance education or virtual schooling classroom?** <span style="font: 13px/19px Arial; letter-spacing: 0px; margin: 0px;">I love the idea of teaching distance learning courses for a number of reasons: I love having a flexible schedule, I love learning/teaching through technology and I promote the level of self-regulation that is required to learn online. In addition, I feel that distance education starts to break down the walls of traditional education - physical barriers, power barriers, relationship barriers and learning disabilities. DL does this by putting everyone on the same playing field.

<span style="font: 13px/19px Arial; letter-spacing: 0px; margin: 0px;">**Finally, what do you see for distance education and virtual schooling in the future?** <span style="font: 13px/19px Arial; letter-spacing: 0px; margin: 0px;">I’m not sure exactly how but I feel that open source learning is going to play a large role in the future of distance learning. Technologies are improving at an alarming rate making asynchronous and synchronous collaboration easier and more effective. As technologies improve, our educators are more tech-savvy and virtual schooling continues to prove its worth I think a major shift to virtual schooling is inevitable. <span style="color: #009eff; font: 13px/19px Arial; letter-spacing: 0px; margin: 0px;">Funda's response: I agree with you that virtual schooling and distance education will have an important role in education. In addition to these, I also see blended learning (mix of face-to-face and online education) in the future. As it is a combination of traditional and online classes, I think it will be used more effectively in the future. <span style="color: #009eff; font: 13px/19px Arial; letter-spacing: 0px; margin: 0px;">

Posted by: Michele Huber There are many concerns that I about virtual education. My first has always been the social aspect. I feel that children in the 21st century schools lack the social skills needed in the "real world". There are many young adults that do not know how to problem solve with others and they have a hard time facing peers face to face, especially in times of conflict. I feel that much of the school day encompasses socialization and without being there, that aspect is lost completely. I also struggle with the fact that students might not be honest in their work. How do the educators know who is on the other end? My other problem is that I believe that we send children to "virtual schools" because they don't make it in the mainstream school system. Is this helping or hindering their educational goals. Amy's expanse on 21st century skills. I think to piggyback with problem-solving is the need for collaboration. Within the 21st century when you focus on problem-solving, critical thinking, and life/career skills all three of these areas focus on collaboration. I feel that collaboration is most effective when it it done in person rather than online. Many of the questions I have for instructors seem to best answered in person rather than through a discussion board and email.

I do believe that there could be benefits from this type of schooling. I don't believe that they outweigh the negatives. One benefit could be the pacing. Students are able to revisit lessons until they feel mastery - then take the assessment when they feel ready. This can build confidence. However, it is know that virtual schooling does not accomodate IEP's or 504's. What are we going to do with the ever growing population of children that have special needs? Would those children be the only ones required to actually go to school? I believe there is value for higher education courses. The value is time constraints. Those trying to complete degrees with full time jobs and families benefit. I still don't think it is the first choice, but the most conveniet. The reality is educaiton is changing so quickly no one knows what to expect- even those in top educaitonal positions. What I do think is that they will become increasing more common at the elementary level and then things will revery back. I feel that the results will not be sufficient enough for our students to compete in the 21st century job force! Amy's response. I do think that this is a great benefit of distance learning/ online courses. Many students struggle in class settings with certain activities because all students don't work at the same pace. Last night during my qualitative methods course we were given a task to read field notes and open code the notes that were taken by a researcher. I felt rushed and did not have enough time to understand the notes to be able to fully code them. It was ultimately a waste of class time for me. I needed to take home the notes and code them at my own pace. In addition, many students with learning disabilities (with reading difficulties) may feel self-conscience reading in class. Distance education allows them the time to fully commit to an assignment

I think a lot of the students that are sent to virtual schooling are forced out of their current school setting because administration and teachers are tired of dealing with their behavior issues, and it's a quick fix. I feel this reason causes the students not to be motivated to actually do the classwork, and in turn do not end up completing the coursework and the acheiving success in their specific grade. I also think that schools do not actual see if the student has Internet access, and therefore the student is not able to complete the work. I also think that virutal schooling hinders the student's ability to socialize and develop real world social skills.

I feel some students can benefit from distance learning because they can work at their own pace. If parents are able to monitor the student's progress, it will allow for the student to work at their own pace and therefore clearly understand the material they are being taught. I also think that virtual schooling may be an option for a student to do half days at school without missing credits they need to graduate. I agree with this as well.As of late, however, I am seeing less and less parental involvement with student work. This is a disturbing trend that I hope changes but, if this trend does continue then it will be difficult to count on parental supervision.
 * What are the benefits of distance education and virtual schooling? **

I could see myself teaching a distance learning class in a college level setting because I could trust that most of my students would be independent enough to do all their work. However, I feel that with younger students that don't have parent involvement or are not independent enough, I could not trust they would complete their work. I feel like I could not help younger students and provide them with the supports they need in the classroom to have academic success. I agree with that. It would be incredibly difficult to instruct younger students using online learning entirely. So much of what students learn in the lower grades is achieved through teacher modeling. I am not saying that this could not partially be done online but I think that the social skills that are modeled by the teacher are crucial for student development. For distance education and virtual schooling in the future, I see Skype and other resources similar to that playing a big part in the instruction. I feel that students and teachers alike would benefit from being able to have a somewhat face to face discussion, and this would also give the students the ability to practice social skills.
 * Would you see yourself teaching in a distance education or virtual schooling classroom? **
 * Finally, what do you see for distance education and virtual schooling in the future? **

I think the main issues regarding distance education and virtual schooling are accessibility and learning potential. The accessibility is an issue because not everybody has a computer with high speed internet access in their home. As I grew up, we had a computer at our house, but whenever there was a snow day or I was sick, I went to my grandparent's house where they had nothing but antenna TV. So, when some schools suggest making online classrooms for snow days to make sure they don't have to make days up, this would be a problem for children like me as well as kids that just don't have the resources at home. The learning potential is also a sticky point, as you don't exactly get the most out of an online session when compared to a day in the classroom. I can knock out online assignments fairly quickly, but I think students learn more when they have to interact with other kids their age. To go completely virtual would be a step backward for our society because people would lose that skill of collaboration and communication in person. Muruvvet's Response: You are right high quality of technology is necessary to conduct distance education. However, I believe that computer and internet would be in every home regardless of SES. For instance, I can give example from my country. When I started to college, we didn’t have computer at home like many homes in Turkey. However, since those days like seven or eight years ago, the rank of having computer at home is getting higher day by day. For this reason, I believe there would be a few or none home without computer and internet connection in the future. Thus, being able to have technology at home would not hinder distance education anymore.

Don't get me wrong, there are benefits. First, some schools propose using online days in the event of snow days to make sure school doesn't need to be made up at the end of the year. So, what would normally be a lost day now turns into a chance for students to at least do something school related. Still though, the faster students will get these assignments done early, and they might not learn it in such a way that it will stick like it would have in a classroom. Because I prefer the face to face interaction, I can't see myself getting into a distance education program as a teacher.

As technology and internet connections get better, I can see more distance learning flourishing. If perhaps video conference technology improves, there could be a good market for remote learning where students "attend" via their webcam. (Andy in Red)

Post by Allison Garrett: According to iNACOL online learning for K-12 students is growing 30% every year. They now have national standards and “promising practices”. Virtual schools where teachers act as a “coach” and students take more initiative and responsibility for their learning are growing. I really like the idea of blended learning. I think it provides students with the best of both worlds. It is so important for students to learn how to navigate a computer and work with technology. My pull from online classes for K-12 students has always been the lack of social interaction, and the important life skills learned through face-to-face learning. A blended education can give both. Learning can be more independent and go deeper through research and online discussion with people beyond the classroom walls. But a student can still talk to a professor face to face for clarification and can bounce ideas off of others without missing out on facial expressions and body language. I also see a blended education giving an ability to reach all types of learner. Working in special education, it is my goal to reach each student at their level and find what works for them, individualizing their education. I found it very interesting that Nicholas Negroponte was quoted in one article saying about virtual education that, “True personalization is now upon us.” I also found it interesting how one of the articles addressed the flexibility of online learning, and how important it is to create a schedule for yourself and be organized. This is one of the biggest challenges I have had with distance learning. I just wonder how well a k-12 student would be at organizing time. I think this could be a big obstacle. I could see myself incorporating a lot more technology into the classroom, but I don’t think I would enjoy teaching a distance learning course at this time. My favorite thing about teaching is the interaction with students and I feel like that changes so much with distance learning.

Post by Yehudit Freudenberger Check this out: http://epgy.stanford.edu/ It is a program called "Education Program for Gifted Youth," created by Stanford University. I liked what Allison said about working with each student on his/her level. I think this program is a nice option for schools to use some online tools, as a supplement to in-school learning. When I was in school, I heard a lot about "fairness." Student who needed more help or, conversely, students who could do more, were all forced to move at the same pace and complete the same work...to be fair. That concept makes me crazy. How does a student's individual learning needs have any impact on other students? Is fairness going to help the slow learner get anything more out of class by being held to the same pace as the group? Does a student termed "gifted" benefit from being scolded to slow down? My daughter (in 8th grade) completed an assignment the other day and received an "F." Her take is that she skipped over the rough draft and just moved on to the final copy, which she handed in instead. We talked about the skills she needs to get to a quality final project and how, in this case, she needs to follow directions instead of just doing the final project. But an "F?" Really? Because she felt comfortable enough to move forward? What kind of message does that send? I think this is where teachers can use technology to assist them. They cannot cater to everyone's needs all of the time, so why not use all of the media out there to help? I think, in part, many teachers feel threatened by this concept of letting go. But, if done properly, I think the concept can be amazing for students. <span style="color: #00805e; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">

<span style="color: #00805e; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Michelle Bowling <span style="color: #00805e; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">When I think of online education/distqance learning I have many reservations. Kind of hypocritical coming from someone taking an online class. I truly do not like taking an online class. I miss the socialiation I get from being in a classroom generating ideas from other classmates. We all have different experiences and when we ar abl to share everyone learns. On the other hand with two extremely busy daughters I can't always make the time to show up on campus the same time every week. To be honest it is hard for me to get a few moments to work on the computer without someone asking me for something. For right now in my life online classes work for me. I don't see how they would work for a student in grade school or even middle school. When we are in the primary grades alot of our day is learning how to get along with others. If we are home on a computer how are we learning how to get along. What kind of adults is that style of education producing. I mean we are already alienating each other by always being plugged into an ipod. People rarely make phone calls anymore. All you see are people walking around, heads bent over texting up a storm. Now on the other hand I have been in contact with a few students who do not need to be in society as they are a threat. Putting them into a mainstream classroom would only harm other students and staff. Having that type of student in an online classroom is sensible and safe. <span style="color: #800000; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">(Dustin's Response) Michelle, to an extent I agree with you that a face-to-face class creates a sense of community and synergy between students. However I have had some awesome experiences online that have made me reconsider the possibilities of community in online learning environments. If done correctly, I really think that online learning (at least with adults) has greater potential for facilitating deep connections between peers and teachers.

<span style="color: #0000ff; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">One of the biggest issues that I think we are confronted with being a student in online classes is the lack of face to face instruction and peer work/interaction. I do not like not being able to picture with whom I’m working and being taught by. It works, but it’s not my preference.
 * <span style="color: #0000ff; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Jen Mott **

<span style="color: #0000ff; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Another issue that is talked about in one of the Edutopia readings we completed this week and it is more from the teachers’ perspective. With technology so readily available, students expect that you as the teacher are also readily available. Therefore, it is difficult to establish boundaries between “work hours” and non-work time. One of the online teachers mentioned, “"Their class day with you doesn't end at 3:30, like it does with a normal class. They can go home, and any time at night, they can email you about personal problems or school problems." So, I think that would be the most difficult thing to overcome when teaching an online course because the teacher then continues to say, "The biggest struggle is to arrange a schedule, because now you're open to this great flexibility that you've never had before," the teacher continues to say in the Edutopia article. “Unlike with the traditional classroom, which you lock up and leave at the end of the day, the Internet is always there."

<span style="color: #0000ff; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">As far as the benefits for distance education, it is clear that it is way more convenient to offer it to a wider range of students and a wider range of locations. Moreover, from a student’s standpoint, they will not have to deal with the formality of going to class and can work on the assigned homework on their own time. This is much more convenient, especially for adult learners with families. High school students taking online courses are more available to take college courses, have a job to start saving up, etc.

<span style="color: #0000ff; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">I do not see myself ever pursuing teaching an online course in the future but who knows what online courses will look like in a few years… much less high school classrooms. So, I completely see it being a possibility just because of how necessary it might be one day.

<span style="color: #0000ff; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">My dad is an expert in distance education as he has worked in one way or another on the administrative end of it for almost his entire career. When I told him we were talking about this, he gave me this website: [] These are the Ohio Learning Network’s general standards for teaching but they hold all the more true in an online class because there is no face to face interaction. So, to supplement that, teachers are expected to be experts in their content area and equipped with ways to best organize the course, contact the students, and keep them informed with quick feedback on how they are doing on their assignments. <span style="color: #0000ff; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">There is no way to tell the future of online learning but I think we are just on the cusp of their use…That is to say, this is just the beginning and we will continue to see their incorporation into mainstream schooling increasingly more throughout the years. It will be interesting to see – I just hope I’ll be fully equipped to use and work with online classes instead of just being thrown into teaching them without having the proper training.

<span style="color: #0000ff; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">Response to Jen's Post by Jacqueline Decembly

<span style="color: #0000ff; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">Jen, I agree that I am also not embracing the idea of having less face-to-face interaction with students. I also agree that while there are disadvantages to distance or virtual schooling, it can open up new doors for our students. I think motivated students will be able to the virtual classroom as a way to prepare themselves for the future. I would consider possible teaching a hybrid of this course but I agree the time committment would be overwhelming. I think there should be a time limit for students to reach their teachers. I'm very curious to see how this develops in the future and what our classrooms will look like in the future.

I believe funding is the first issue that impact distance education and virtual schooling like Florida Virtual High School versus North Carolina as it is stated in Christina Wood’s article. The reason is that creating technological infrastructure for distance education and/or virtual schooling need fund. Additionally, training, support system, management system and other considerations for online education need funding, effort and time. These would be other issues that impact distance education and virtual schooling. To be specific, online education requires much time then traditional classroom teaching. As it is indicated in the article, students can contact with instructor whenever they want to and instructor should answer this demand and help students for their struggling. Moreover, creating content in online will be different than traditional text based content. In that case, teachers will need to handle technical issues and lack of computer skills and/or technology knowledge issues. These difficulties can cause resistance toward distance education and virtual schooling. The resistance for change will be an issue that impact distance education because in online education willingness is important. The reason is that as I mentioned earlier, online education needs to spend so much time and effort.
 * <span style="color: #000000; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">POSTED BY: Muruvvet Demiral **
 * In your opinion, what do you see as the issues that impact distance education and virtual schooling?**

With distance education and virtual schooling, every student would have a chance to educate regardless of their lack of experience, disabilities, socio-economic status and so on. With this opportunity, each student would have equal chance. Moreover, this new kind of educational approach will allow flexibility for students. With this flexibility, they can learn related to their own schedule not a strict traditional school schedule. In fact, this flexibility would allow students to know their own responsibility to learn and do something with their own pace. In addition, distance education and virtual schooling are location independent. With this benefit, students from all over the country can get education in the same virtual school. This allows students to interact with different people from different location and expand their horizons.
 * What are the benefits of distance education and virtual schooling?**

I am imagining that because I am in instructional design and technology program and interested in online education. This is exactly what I want to do and expand to whole. However, I am aware that the quality of distance education s not related to just imagination. It is also related to consideration all components of education. I mean it is important to develop instruction based on not only technological trends and opportunities but also students’ interest, demand, characteristics, needs, backgrounds and so on.
 * Would you see yourself teaching in a distance education or virtual schooling classroom?**

In fact, I see that distance education and virtual schooling will be expanded to whole and implemented well in the future. The reason is that I believe by using different types of technology to develop instruction, education can be transmitted to online environments even face to face communication, interaction, collaboration, socialization and so on.
 * Finally, what do you see for distance education and virtual schooling in the future?**

__**Posted by Jon Spurlock**__ In my opinion some of the issues/benefits that impact distance learning/virtual schooling is the availability of teachers. This is a two folded approach. When reading the edutopia article, teachers availability is widespread in a virtual or distance learning setting. Since teachers are available on the internet/email, they must have a computer and therefore are technically available 24/7. The typical workday is is well beyond the 3:30 mark for most schools. However, this type of learning setting allows students access to a wide variety of teachers. This type of education will take into the consideration that in a few years we will need to address the mass retirement of teachers. By using a virtual/distance learning approach, one teacher will be able to handle many more students per "class", since their is not necessarily a physical location. The teachers they have access to are "highly quality" and proficient in the subject areas because they are not limited to just a physical location. Another issue according to Governor Bob Wise is this type of education is by learning on line, students are fitting their skills into the growing demand skills of technology. Our world, as we have found out in the articles, is based on technology/computer skills and in order to be successful, students will need to learn these skills that they will master using on line courses. The biggest issue is the personal skills and face to face human approach. Teachers do not get to sit down with the students and see their faces and gauge true understanding. According to edutopia, it takes a lot longer to get to know your students, but it is possible. However, the benefit of online/distance learning is the personalization of the program for individuals. Students have the ability to take classes that would not generally be offered at their local school. They can learn at their chosen speed and convenience. If they have to work, they can still take classes in the evening. Finally another issue that is not just limited to online/distance learning is the fact that the teaches will need to reteach themselves. This type of learning is not suited for teachers that teach lecture style according to edutopia. Teachers need to be more creative and have a sense for the inquiry based learning. This is a challenge for older teachers while the newer teachers are more tech savvy. Of course with any type of education, funding is always an issue. To run an online/distance learning school actually takes no more money than a traditional school, but yet there are still the funding issues because even our traditional schools have economic woes. As far as seeing myself teaching in one of these types of schools; that is hard to say. I enjoy teaching and would like to go where I have a chance to teach. I think in some ways we already are. We have the more blended approach, which is where we still have the traditional person to person lecture style, but I have been taught to incorporate inquiry based lessons into my everyday teaching. We use technology and email already, so we are already accessible like online teachers, compare this to the traditional schooling of ten years ago. We find many resources on line and I know personally I use different on line resources for my students (mainly through our book). I have used wall wishers in my class. I have recorded my lectures and posted them for students, so I consider what I am doing is incorporating more than the traditional approach into my classroom. Will I ever be a full blown on line distance learning - well I think I would be more involved in a virtual school where I can still be involved with the students personally and help guide them through their classes. The future of on line schooling is necessary and practical. I envision all schools being strictly like this much like I view this world with out McDonalds, I can not see it. I would like to think that education face to face serves a great purpose and which is why many of us went into teaching/coaching - to work directly with the young people. It sure does have its benefits and I truly do feel it is helpful for students looking for a class they couldn't take, younger people that don't have the same access to good schools, or have to fulfill other duties in their lives.

Amy’s response to distance education: One of the largest benefits I see of distance education is being able to take classes not offered in your area. For example, when I was enrolled in Plant Pathology I had the idea of specializing in tropical plant virology. It would have been nice to at least have some foundational coursework to experience this field; however, it is hard to study tropical plants in central Ohio. There are plenty of courses that are area specific such as marine biology. Offering these types of courses online allows a larger population to gain knowledge. In addition to taking area specific courses, distance education allows students to take classes by world famous professor in certain fields. While at Ohio State I took Plant Epidemiology with Dr. Larry Madden, who is a world famous plant epidemiologist. Larry opened up his course to other universities to allow other plant pathology students from Penn State and Cornell to benefit from his expertise. Also, Ohio State students from Columbus and the Agriculture campus in Wooster were enrolled in the course. Larry taught the class in person in Wooster and then the other campuses were video linked, so that we could all benefit but didn’t all have to meet in Wooster for class. This brings up another strength of distance education it cuts down on the drive time. The Plant Pathology departments at OSU is primarily housed in Wooster; however, the majority of courses are offered in Columbus. Graduate students with advisors in Wooster as well as their research need to spend the first year or two either living in or commuting to Columbus (1.5 hr drive one-way) to complete their courses. This is counterproductive. If more classes were offered online, these students could stay where their research is and still take their classes. Distance classes do not work for every student. Online courses have the ability to be more student centered, have increased interaction, and integrated assessments. These are benefits, but they only benefit students who are disciplined enough to succeed. I know that I need to purposefully remember to check BB when I am enrolled in online courses. In addition, some students really need that specialized one-on-one instruction or seeing the instructor face-to-face to succeed. The one source discussed taking gym online. I wonder how this works. How does the instructor really know the student completed the assignments/activity? In addition, I don’t see how all aspects of Biology can be taught online rather in the classroom/laboratory setting. I don’t think you can effectively replicate hands-on lab activities in an online setting. For example, my students recently completed an inquiry lab on organic molecules where they were to run experiments on unknown substances to assess what organic molecules were in the unknown and what the unknown could actually be. You can replicate this lab at home unless students have access to all the materials including the unknowns. Many of the 5E model (engage, explore, explain, elaborate, and evaluate) components of the lab can be done at home, but not the explore component. Also, dissections have turned into online/computer based environments. These are a helpful substitute, but depending on your major and specializing within Biology you can not completely replicate the feel of cutting with a computer. In my opinion, the biggest issue of distance education is access. Last week we discussed the digital divide. This completely influences distance education. If students don’t have access to the proper technology how are they to succeed in distance courses? I could see myself teaching online at some point in my career. There are times currently that I could teach some of my labs online rather than forcing students into a lab especially in bad weather. I’m merging into a field of STEM, technology education, science education, and special education so my courses could be offered online since many should cover issues. I would feel comfortable teaching online, but would prefer a blended approach so I could get to know my students face to face as well. I learn students names best by seeing their faces and interacting with them. I get to know my students on a personal level mainly because I have taught at small private colleges. My students get to know me and I get to know them. One of my students has been recently diagnosed with clinical depression. We have scheduled small weekly sometimes twice a week to make sure he stays on task and completes his assignments. We could do most of this virtually, but the face to face interaction is really helping him stay on task. I think that in the future more and more classes will start to become blended with traditional face-to-face, but also online components. Many courses could primarily be taught online and then have one weekly face to face meeting. During this face time lab experiments could be completed as well as collaborative construction projects that cannot be completed online. In addition, I see more and more classes becoming distance to broaden courses that can be offered as well as enhancing on instructors expertise. We may have some schools merging with others to broaden the courses students can enroll in.

** In your opinion, what do you see as the issues that impact distance education and virtual schooling? -Darla Chandler **

 * ==== Issues I see with distance learning and strictly virtual learning for K-12 education stems from my experiences with students in the classroom and has very little to do with academics. Thirty percent of my students are on free and reduced lunch programs. For some of these students, the daily routine and stability of the classroom is a welcomed relief. While for others, the social interaction with students and adults provides much needed life lessons and opportunities for behavioral cooperative learning. I believe students can learn through online lessons but I do think that the social lessons learned though face-to-face interactions cannot be underestimated. However, I do like the idea of blending online and traditional classroom learning. I can definitely see how this type of combination would allow for true differentiated instruction -which is so difficult to do in a whole group setting. ====

** What are the benefits of distance education and virtual schooling? **

 * ==== I can see the value of virtual schooling for many different learners and instructors. These types of learning environments would allow student athletes as well as students with disabilities to the flexibility that they need to be successful. Also, because virtual learning lessons are modeled in the same manner as inquiry lessons, student engagement will be much higher which will lead to more motivated students and a higher success rate. ====

** Would you see yourself teaching in a distance education or virtual schooling classroom? **

 * ==== I could see myself teaching in a distance or virtual schooling classroom but I can also imagine how difficult it would be because of the extensive planning and design. I know that it could potentially be incredibly time consuming to design a unit for a virtual classroom because all resources and materials would have to be in place and considered prior to beginning the lesson. Technology is amazing, it can do so much but at the same time teaching without immediate non-verbal and verbal feedback from students, like facial expressions and questioning, can lead to misunderstandings and confusion. ====

** Finally, what do you see for distance education and virtual schooling in the future? **
==== Reading these articles and thinking about the options for differentiated instruction has given me some great ideas for my students. I have been giving students the opportunity to review their assignments and record the areas where they need more practice. I then direct them to different online "skill" games through my class wiki. Now I'm thinking of ways I can differentiate these activities even more. ==== Response (Jon Spurlock) - If we could overcome the facial expression (via camera) would this be sufficient in this component. Many teachers do feel this is important (as do I), but maybe this would help. I agree with the Idea that this would allow athletes and students with disabilities (actually this one never occurred to me) would allow them more time and access. This would also allow students that have to work during the day to help families to complete classes at their own pace. I wonder, you already use a wiki in your classroom, would you consider this part of a blended learning or do we have to do more - what ideas do you have in place? Joseph Cunningham's Post
 * ==== I see this type of educational setting gaining in popularity and effectiveness. I believe that it is a valuable tool that educators can use to teach students the type of research and problem-solving skills that they will need for the job market of the future. I think that the current inclusive classroom setting that teachers operate in is great for the social development of all learners. However, I know that this type of classroom environment can often leave advanced students floundering without being sufficiently challenged. Hopefully we will begin to see more classrooms blend virtual with direct instruction. ====

In looking at the articles and various other resources, I find distance learning to reflect the common goal that is often connected when one utilizes technology: cost. Distance education makes things cheaper for students and schools in a number of areas. Transportation, space consideration, books, resources, teacher salaries, etc. could all be theoretically made less costly with the incorporation of distance learning. This is more than likely the primary benefit of distance learning. Technology can be packaged and constructed in such a way as to make things easily replicated and cost efficient (although those companies who construct online curriculum will more than likely benefit as the textbooks companies did with their own particular rackets). Additionally, there is a sort of fatalism that distance learning embraces as it reflects the distance living our lives are gradually assuming and the distance structures of business; therefore, it would certainly make sense for schools to incorporate a distance component to prepare students for such a world. That is ultimately where I see distance learning as it becomes more entrenched in the educational landscape. As one article stated, we are just witnessing the first drops in a bucket that will eventually be a total downpour. Schools are losing funding, and students who are either indifferent about education or unable to adjust to a classroom setting will look towards more distance learning opportunities to receive some education. Furthermore, the ability to create classroom packages and curriculum will only fuel more schools and institutions to adopt such a model, for it can be easily implemented, and there are certainly positive elements to this and other aspects of distance education. However, until technology can truly produce a curriculum that engages a student's critical thinking processes and allows students to engage one another, I think online education, especially in K-12, does not adequately compare to face to face classrooms. Perhaps it will someday, but I'm afraid we still have quite a ways to go.

Lateef Johnson's Post

In your opinion, what do you see as the issues that impact distance education and virtual schooling?

The first and for me the most obvious issue with distance education and virtual schooling is that in order for programs to be effective students have to be fairly motivated to get their work done independently. If a student is not motivated and they are enrolled in a distance learning/ virtual schooling program, then there is a strong likelihood that they are wasting there time and school resources. I think that these programs are great for students who are behind in their academic career; however, we never want distance learning programs/ virtual schooling to be the culprit for why a student is behind. Another clear issue that arises for students who participate in distance learning programs/ virtual school is the fact that these programs do not promote social connectedness. Learning how to effectively work and communicate with people of all backgrounds is a critical skill for any student looking to enter into the world of work. The social aspect of schooling is just as important as the academic aspect of schooling! Clearly, when students are participating in a virtual program, the connections that they have with her peers and educational professionals is limited. I am aware of several virtual programs that are held at school facilities- students attend classes as they would in the traditional environment, the only difference is that they work independently on computers to get their work done. In these settings, teachers are still in the room to monitor and support students- I think this is a better fit for most students when compared to completing your program online at home.

What are the benefits of distance education and virtual schooling?

There are handfuls of students in which the traditional school setting just does not work for them. Some of these students have social problems, may not be able to focus in large settings, or simply may not be able to get to school on time and thus face truancy charges. The solution to some of these frequent problems is that students enroll in virtual schooling programs so that they can work at their own pace in the comfort of their own home. For the most part, virtual programs/distance learning is a great alternative for the "right type of student". For educators, the main benefit is that we as educational professionals know there are other options for students to get though high school should the traditional school environment not meet the needs of certain students.

Would you see yourself teaching in a distance education or virtual schooling classroom?

Personally, I could not see myself teaching in a distance education or virtual schooling classroom. Since I am entering into the field of School Counseling, there is no way that I can legitimately see myself being able to create, foster, and promote positive relationships with my students via the internet/online! In the field of counseling there is now "virtual counseling"- this topic is the focus of a huge debate among the profession, many counselors ( school counselors, marriage counselors, mental health counselors, student assistant counselors, addiction counselors) feel it is unethical to provide any type of counseling services or counseling related services solely through technological devices/internet/etc.

What do you see for distance education and virtual schooling in the future?

For my interview project, I asked a very similar question to both of my interviewees. Neither one of my interviewees was sure how distance education and virtual schooling will look in the future and I can say I too have no clue either. All I can accurately and confidently state is that I am sure it's going to look completely different- in a way that will positively affect ALL students, not just students who are officially enrolled and participating in distance education and virtual schooling programs.

Jacqueline Decembly

In your opinion, what do you see as the issues that impact distance education and virtual schooling?

I think that technology has become a huge part of our culture and is changing the way we live as well as learn. Students are learning to use technology at an earlier age and are able to be exposed to different things that would not be available to them without technology. I think distance education and virtual schooling may be ways to help motivate student learning, deal with behavior issues and allow students to become in charge of their own learning.

What are the benefits of distance education and virtual schooling?

It allows students to work and learn at their own pace, which allows learning to become more individualized. Students can take courses that are not available to them like a foreign language or other classes that they're interested in. This allows more interaction between students and the instructor, and often allows/offers other ways for students to interact with their teachers (e-mail, voice-mail, etc).

<span style="color: #0000ff; font: 13px/19px Arial; letter-spacing: 0px; margin: 0px;">Would you see yourself teaching in a distance education or virtual schooling classroom?

<span style="color: #0000ff; font: 13px/19px Arial; letter-spacing: 0px; margin: 0px;">Before I began working on this module I would have said no. But after reading the articles and looking at different lesson plans, I think I would be open to it. I would still love to see my students in the traditional <span style="color: #0000ff; font: 13px/19px Arial; letter-spacing: 0px; margin: 0px;">classroom setting, so I think a blended approach would allow me to experience both. I also would love to work with students who can't take Spanish because their school can't provide the classes. I can see this as a possible option for me in the future.

<span style="color: #0000ff; font: 13px/19px Arial; letter-spacing: 0px; margin: 0px;">Finally, what do you see for distance education and virtual schooling in the future?

<span style="color: #0000ff; font: 13px/19px Arial; letter-spacing: 0px; margin: 0px;">At this point I think it is really hard to predict the future. Like some of the articles suggested there hasn't been enough research done on distance education or virtual school classroom. However, I believe that the influence of techology will continue to change and challenge the views we have on the "classroom". Hopefully, these factors will help students to become more motivated and invested in their own learning. On the other hand, I am concerned that students will not be given

Posted by Tuncer Akbay Distance education and virtual schooling provide people with flexible time for study. At first glance, it sounds very nice thing to plan your own schedule and makes people more comfortable and free. I believe there are more people out there like me who are not good at planning self-study time. I, for example, postpone most of things to the last minute, although I did schedule to do them earlier. I say like ‘OK I have still time, I can do it tomorrow blah blah blah’. It is something like I cannot control. Time flexibility might be issue for those who create a fake excuse for postpone homework or study. Besides, lack of social face to face interaction, spending most of your time sitting in front of computer, and accessibility of technology are other issues that can be impact distance education and virtual schooling I can think of right now.
 * In your opinion, what do you see as the issues that impact distance education and virtual schooling? **

Doubtless, distance education has lots of benefits for those who are unable to attend face to face classes due to several reasons, prefer to individual study over group study, have a necessity to have flexible schedule, and feel more comfortable in virtual world. Because, virtual schooling provides people with more freedom of speech, place, and time. They can attend virtual learning whenever they want, wherever they want.
 * What are the benefits of distance education and virtual schooling? **

I would like to teach in virtual learning environment as long as circumstances are convenient. I would rather hybrid course than pure online because, I would like to go beyond the limitations of virtual schooling by interacting students face to face. Besides, It would be better to know who you teach in person.
 * Would you see yourself teaching in a distance education or virtual schooling classroom? **

As readings mentioned, distance education is growing 30% annually. I believe that it will gain acceleration in the near future due to people’s amazing effort for being technologically equipped individuals. Developing technology is also another driving force to teachers to consider teaching via internet.
 * Finally, what do you see for distance education and virtual schooling in the future? **

Posted by: Kendra Reddick

One of the issues that impacts virtual learning and distance education at the K-12 level is that many teachers have not been prepared to teach in that environment. Because of this, some students may be at a disadvantage if their teacher is just beginning to teach online and is not yet comfortable with the protocol. The teacher in the Edutopia article explained that it took her 6 months before she felt comfortable. This is important to note since the students themselves may not be comfortable with online learning and will need a teacher who will put them at ease while doing the coursework. More professional development opportunities could be given to teachers before they start their classes so that they are more comfortable.

As a future special education teacher, I feel that another issue related to online learning is that children with disabilities may not be able to get the proper interventions they need while taking online classes, especially courses that are 100% online with no face-to-face teacher interaction. However, I like that on the inacol.org website they had a profile about Cincinnati Public School’s Virtual High School. I like that this school offers face-to-face interaction with the students and have intervention specialists on site to help students with disabilities.

One of the benefits of online learning is that non-traditional students who have children, jobs, or a chronic illness have more flexibility in their school courses which may allow them to attend to other important areas in their lives. Another benefit is that students who are preparing for postsecondary education may be able to take Advanced Placement (AP) online that are not offered at their high school.

I don’t see myself working in a virtual classroom environment in the near future. As a teacher who will work with students with disabilities, I prefer a face-to-face classroom environment which I feel will benefit those students the most. However, as virtual classrooms become more common and more accommodations are made available for students with disabilities, I may feel that virtual teaching is an option for me.

POSTED BY: Ashley Way **1. In your opinion, what do you see as the issue that impact distance education and virtual schooling?** Some students’ reason for taking advantage of virtual schooling may have to do with technology as a better medium for instruction. Taking advantage of virtual schooling is a means for differentiation is wonderful for those students. Chances are they have some experience with technology and have found that this avenue works for them. That being said, others take advantage of virtual schooling out of necessity, whether that is illness, bullying, disabilities, or otherwise. As a result, these students may not have the knowledge, skills, or ability to independently use the necessary technology involved in the course. I feel that the playing field is so uneven in that way and this is an issue that could hinder students abilities – students who really need that option – to participate fully, or at all. Participant buy-in I think is crucial for virtual schooling to be successful. While some students opt into virtual schooling, others students are using it as a last resort. As in ANY educational setting, it is hard to have a worthwhile educational experience if students do not want to be there. In addition, one cannot overlook teachers as participants and the necessary buy-in. I have seen teachers, “forced,” into virtual schooling situations when their class loads are not full enough or when classes are cut with schedule changes. If teachers are not committed to the time and learning the technology necessary for virtual schooling, this could create a barrier. **2. What are the benefits of distance education and virtual schooling?** I feel that the most appealing aspect of virtual schooling is the flexibility it allows for all participants. Allowing students to work at their own pace as their ability or their schedule allows learning to be incredibly personal. Students have a better opportunity to participate in their own learning if the instructional design allows them to take part on their own time. It facilitates better access to teachers with much more personal and specific dialogue about class work and instruction. **3. Would you see yourself teaching in a distance education or virtual schooling classroom?** I really love the idea of being a teacher in a virtual classroom. However, I don’t know if it would be for me when it came right down to it. I think I would miss the face-to-face interaction with kids. I became a teacher because I love the spirit and enthusiasm of young people. There are some moments that one just can’t recreate on a screen. Also, as a student in a distance-learning program, I print out EVERYTHING. I have great difficulty learning on a screen. I learned to mark and annotate text and I have such a hard time with articles that I can’t print because I struggle making notations and working with ideas that I can use. I feel that, as a teacher, I would struggle with organization and grading on a screen. I feel that my feedback would be less timely and effective and I would frustrate my students. All of this being said, I would love to be a part of a blended classroom if my students’ technological accessibility allowed it. I love technological tools but would struggle relying on technology-based methodology. **4. Finally, what do you see for distance education and virtual schooling in the future?** I just read an article online about a school district in Ohio that is going to use Webcasts (using Skype or something like that?) for calamity days. I feel like school districts are preparing to create calendars that accommodate the reduction of our allotted calamity (snow) days and I feel like a step toward virtual schooling could alleviate a lot of the problems. As we move forward, blended classrooms using technology as one of many tools for instruction, interaction, differentiation, and reflection seems like a logical next-step.