Class is now in session, online that is. Gone are the days of ringing bells, uncomfortable wooden desks, and walking to the front of class to answer a question.
Today, many online schools are offering their students engaging, virtual instruction in a live environment of online classrooms, together with online or print-based lessons students read independently. Although this can vary from school to school, most online classrooms offer similar features such as the following:
– Easy to download online meeting software
– Live or taped instruction from a teacher (with shared computer screen and/or webcams)
– Full audio with phone or computer speakers
– Option to message or chat with fellow students (if allowed)
– Ability to ask teacher direct or private questions (either before, after, or during class)
It's pretty simple actually. Think of online class as a traditional class on a computer plopped down in the middle of your living room. A student can download online meeting software, receive a class schedule and login info, and join in to learn.
Granted, technical difficulties can bring a little reality to this utopian form of education. Internet connections can be slow or fade in and out, audio can be crackly, teachers can't see students all the time (or discipline them as well), and questions can be left unanswered.
New opportunities exist too though, like math class in pajamas, homebound or handicap students can easily attend class, rural students can meet new friends, and online learners can get direct concept explanations for only the subjects they need help with (no more wasting time in class when lessons are already understood!)
While online classrooms aren't mainstream yet, they are likely to become more prevalent in the years to come, especially as the best medium of instruction for online-only schools. In fact, blended learning, online learning coupled with traditional face-to-face school instruction is a fast rising trend for traditional schools.
Has your student ever attended an online classroom before?