Kim's Journal # 8

JOURNAL # 8
Virtual Schooling
By Niki Davis and Dale S. Niederhauser

As a teacher, this article left me completely overwhelmed. Just the thought of adding yet another component to the many demands and challenges that we face as educators is a scary thought. I feel like I am supposed to be excited and encouraged by this technology, but from the content of the article, it seems like much more work than what a regular classroom teacher endures. My fear may derive from not having any hands-on experience with virtual teaching. The article did make reference to the fact that field experiences in virtual teaching are needed for educators to buy-in to the concept.
On the other-hand, as a student, I love the idea of Virtual Schooling. I like the flexibility as mentioned by other students in the article, and the ability to remain place-bound, which was also mentioned. For me, the decision to take a virtual class depends on the course and the content. I like a combination of virtual with the traditional, but I learn best by physically interacting with the teacher and other students.


QUESTION # 1

Did the state of Michigan make the right decision in requiring high school students to take at least one virtual schooling course for high school graduation?

I applaud the state of Michigan for recognizing the benefits of Virtual Schooling, but I think the students should be encouraged and not required to participate in Virtual Schooling. Students should have a choice in how they engage in the learning process.

The article cited a few reasons why students choose virtual schooling, but what are some reasons why students would choose not to participate in Virtual Schooling?

What does the future hold for virtual schooling?

It is going to be very popular especially with parents who choose not to send their children to public schools for fear of harm to their children. As our schools become more and more unsafe, I think there will be growing support for Virtual Schooling programs. The challenge would probably be finding teachers who are willing to make the commitment to change the way they teach.