With all the benefits of online schools, perhaps the most overlooked and important benefit of K-12 distance learning is how it prepares students for college. Certainly, an accredited K-12 online school strives to give your student the solid academic foundation necessary to get into the college of his choice. The basics of math, science, language, history, and diverse electives all embellish your student's transcript and make him a desirable candidate for university acceptance.
Once these are covered, what's the most important skill a student needs to succeed after high school in college? Independent learning is arguably at the top of the list. (Read the characteristics of independent learners.) Online school is the perfect environment for growing this independent learning as it simulates an environment similar to college.
College readiness is grown in K-12 online school through exposure to these situations:
- Digital communication with teachers
- Technology use and correct application of tools
- Need to focus in a distracting environment
- Student initiation of questions for help
- Self-driven motivation, problem solving, and time management
- Ability to take efficient lecture notes
- Rigorous, challenging lessons
- Research processes and creative thinking
- Student accountability for grades and homework
- Group projects with various student personalities
What situation do you think grows independent learning in a K-12 student?