This week, I researched Chicago Virtual Charter School (CVCS). It uses K12, Inc. curriculum which I had a personal experience. In Korea, representing the biggest educational technology company, a K12 Korea subsidiary manager came to talk to me about having our schools (F2F) and after-class programs use the program. Consequently, I had a chance to review their product, and although I didn't have a thorough look, it was very well done. On the other hand, for students who have not taken online classes, it may be challenging without support.
I believe CVCS is taking the right approach as they are doing a "blended" learning approach where the students go to a physical classroom once or twice a week and then take the rest of time studying online. I think this model gives the students better shot at succeeding because the teachers can get a sense of how students are following along F2F much better than in virtual classroom. I believe more schools are likely going to take this approach in the future, especially facing budget cuts and lack of quality programs & teachers in many areas (specifically low-income neighborhoods and rural towns). I also think TC can use this blended teaching method and be successful by utilizing the advantages of both physical on virtual classrooms.
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The blended approach is interesting and I think it would be beneficial for many students especially k-12. My virtual school is designed to be self taught. I was a bit turned off to this idea.
ReplyDeleteI am glad you chose this school. I had heard about it but never really investigated. It is an interesting model. One of the students in my class last year (f2f version) ran a school in California for drop-outs and used this model, where the kids had to check into a physical building for meetings with counselors, some academic help, etc.
ReplyDeleteI am on the fence as far as hybrid schools. My experience with online courses has been excellent. I could see the hybrid working for me if I could get the grunt work out of the way online in order to make the f2f time very productive.
ReplyDeleteI have actually taught in a blended environment. It is great. I see very positive results especially from the elementary school kids. Basically, they come in for f2f class and then all reviewing and homework assignments are done online.
ReplyDeleteI am curious. May I ask what program you reviewed?
I think finding the right balance is crucial in "blended" learning environment. My last company actually did some pilot tests to see the effectiveness of blended learning in math and the results showed success on both parties - the students and the educators. Students liked taking class time to ask specific questions or solving problems while learning at own pace and level. For eductors or administrators at least, it was beneficial because blended learning allowed higher student enrollment without putting too much pressure on the teachers.
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