You've heard about online learning. You know online school offers a wide variety of flexibility with classes, schedules, distance learning teachers, and off-computer opportunities. Still, no matter how many articles, tweets, Facebook posts, and blogs you read, you always think to yourself, Can my child really do that? There's the nagging feeling in your mind that says online learning just isn't for your learner.
You know your child the best, after all. Before you make up your mind, ask yourself this question first: "Does online learning offer the best education for my child?" Are you, as a parent, willing to follow that direction?
Often, online learning opens many more doors for children than traditional school ever could. Imagine the possibilities of learning without the restraints of a physical school! Travel, field trips, student athletics, self pacing, time for music lessons-the list of what you could do goes on and on.
Some parents choose not to do online school because of conflict it creates with their work schedule. Here's the fact: Parental involvement is crucial to any student's academic success, no matter what kind of school the student attends. With an online school, your child benefits from qualified distance learning teachers, but true parental support means a student is more likely to achieve goals. The more the investment, the more the reward.
Some parents choose not to do online school because they think their child is unmotivated to learn. Here's the fact: Most kids want to learn; they are just bored with the presentation of material. With online school, kids receive more personalized attention and instruction of concepts, instead of a lecture to 40 students. At online school, students take control of learning with self-pacing and true accountability. This independence and intrinsic motivation prepares learners for college and life. Online teachers connect with students and parents, ensuring lessons are completed and understood.
Some parents choose not to do online school because it's not mainstream (yet). Here's the fact: So what? If it's what's best for your child, then it's the best decision. No two students are alike, so why do we send students off to school where they are treated like brains in an assembly line? Online learning lets your student break out of the factory and become a unique, individual learner who has time to pursue the talents and abilities given to him.
Some parents choose not to do online school because they are afraid of the lack of socialization. Here's the fact: Online school gives students more time to make friends, join clubs, participate in sports, and be an active community member. Plus, in an online school, students can make friends with classmates, without the fear of peer pressure, bullying, or stereotypes. They can even meet students across the world they would never know otherwise!
Online learning can provide a bright future for students. The question isn't as much "Is online learning right for my child?" The question is more for parents: "Am I willing to do what takes to give the best education to my child?"
What reasons keep you from trying online learning for your child?