Journal #8

“Virtual Schooling,” by Niki Davis and Dale S. Niederhauser.

The article discusses how the rise of distance education, online learning and cyber classrooms has created new roles and responsibilities for today’s teachers and administrators. It talks about how K-12 learning is expanding at an increased rate, especially for high school students and how in 2006 a school in Michigan became the first state to require an online learning experience for graduation. It goes on to tell how teaching responsibilities will change in response to the needs of digital students. It also names and explains the roles of all the key players involved in Virtual Schooling (VS). The article states that the current challenge in U.S. education is to prepare teachers for VS Preservice Teacher Education Programs. These typically provide field experience during which students become immersed in the culture of the school and begin to understand the complementary roles of education within each K-12 school. The article was written to raise awareness that every teacher may have a role to play in the facilitation of VS since its becoming a common experience in U.S. education.

What do I think of distance learning for the K-12 education system? Well, I think it is alright under certain circumstances. If there is a situation such as the Katrina incident or other such circumstances than I can see how it could be beneficial. I feel that although it is important for students to learn to use technology as a tool, a computer does not take the place of social interaction. I think that learning this is also an essential part of an education. In adulthood, very few people work at home and have that much of a limited access to other humans. If these students are going to work in offices or any other setting where they will come into contact with other employees, they would benefit from the interaction skills they gain from being in a classroom and also following rules such as staying in their seat or raising their hand before they ask a question etc.

Do I think it is a good idea for all teachers to learn how to help facilitate VS? Yes, I do. I feel that with the trend in the U.S. leaning this way at such a rate, it is important for us as educators to be prepared to help our students what ever that entails.