What comes to mind when you hear the word “hybrid?” Is it a fuel efficient car? A piece of fruit? Whether it’s on wheels or on a stem, a hybrid is made by taking the best qualities of two distinct entities and joining them together to make something new; usually something better.
This is the essence of the online school. Also known as virtual learning academies, these educational programs offer the best of both the homeschool world and a structured school setting.
Structured School Setting
Many online academies are accredited schools staffed by certified teachers. Although the curriculum is a web-based program (meaning the students are learning through online lessons), teachers track students’ progress and are available for questions. Some online schools even offer clubs and other opportunities to interact with other students. So, virtual learning academies offer academic support, professional input, and even a sense of community – positive “school” qualities.
Homeschool
Because the learning can happen anywhere the internet is available, virtual academies are a form of homeschool. Thus, offering the great benefits of homeschool such as a learning environment that suits a family’s schedule, priorities and values. Another benefit of homeschool afforded by online learning is individualized instruction. Working at their own pace, a student can either excel or receive extra help and practice, depending on their needs. Parent involvement is easily facilitated by online education because there is instant feedback and progress reporting. Parents can know exactly what their child has learned and how well they have mastered the skill or concept. With so many high school electives from which to choose at virtual academies, student-directed learning is another homeschool benefit seen in this approach. Students develop a life-long love of learning because they have a limitless source right at their fingertips – literally!
An example of one online school is International Virtual Learning Academy (www.internationalvla.com). At IVLA, certified teachers work with students from all over the world to receive a quality education in this US accredited school for grades 3-12. High school students can choose which course of study they will pursue, either Basic, Standard, or College Prep. Upon graduation, students receive a diploma and an official transcript. One quality that sets IVLA apart from other online learning schools is that families can choose from several curriculum options. Whether parents are looking for Common Core, Non Common Core, Honors/AP, or Christian curriculum, IVLA offers it all. Another unique aspect is that each full-time student can access “Study Island.” A supplement to their chosen curriculum, Study Island is a learning program designed to strengthen math and language arts skills through interactive practice (most students would call it “games!”).
We live in an exciting age of innovation! We are finding better ways to drive, to power our world, and to teach our children. This educational hybrid called online schools is proof-positive.
Copyright © 2014 J. Hoffman / Global Student Network
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Email: JHoffman@GlobalStudentNetwork.com