Virtual Schooling

Virtual Schooling Jessica Todd, Maura McDaniels, Erin Ehrlinger, Brittany Gonitzke

Please click on sound button for audio What is Virtual Schooling?Uses digital communication technologies (Davis & Niederhauser, 2007, p. 11)

Available for K-12 courses mainly middle schools and high schools.

How Popular is Virtual Schooling?Virtual schooling (VS) programs are rapidly expanding.Participation over the years (Davis & Niederhauser, 2007):2002-2003 approximately 300,000 students.2005 estimated to be 500,000 student.2006 projection of 1 million.16 states are participating in program.

Uses of Virtual Good for displaced student.Ex Hurricane Katrina (Davis & Niederhauser, 2007).Distance Learning delivering education to students who are not physically on-site to receive their education (Davis & Niederhauser, 2007, p. 11)Future and continued learning.

A Virtual Schooling SystemUse digital technology to communicate Ex: BlackboardGail Wortmanns Anatomy and Physiology ClassWortmann used WebCT, videoconferencing, self study and formal meetings for lab activities (Davis & Niederhauser, 2007).

Key Roles Involved in VSThree key roles in virtual schooling: teacher, designer, and VS site facilitator (Davis & Niederhauser, 2007).

What makes a successful VS teacher?Highly organizedAbility to use different communication toolsWell with time management Good social presence with a supportive and welcoming environment (p.14)Actively involved in the VS

(Davis & Niederhauser, 2007)

Roles of a VS Administrator They are responsible for allocation of necessary resources, logistical coordination, and maintenance of collaborative arrangements (Davis & Niederhauser, 2007, p.14).Recruitment and determining a need for VS courses (Davis & Niederhauser, 2007)

What does a VS site Facilitator do?Provide information and instructional support Provide access to k-12 resourcesAct as an advisor to students Act as a liaison with each students parent or guardian Proctor examsFix any problems with VS, for example, technology breakdownsvital liaison between students school and the virtual teacher(Davis & Niederhauser, 2007, p.14)(Davis & Niederhauser, 2007)

Preparing TeachersChallenges:-No support-No field experienceDevelopments:Nikki Davis, innovator for Teacher Education Goes in to Virtual Schooling(Davis & Niederhauser, 2007, p.15).Creating courses for teachers

ConclusionWith support for teachers and proper field experience, virtual schooling will become more popular and will change education.Reference Davis, N. & Neiderhauser, D. (2007, April). Virtual schooling. Learning and Leading with Technology. 34(7), 10-15.