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Distance learning is a common part of earning a college degree. Some public universities offer online classes as part of their overall curriculum, while some schools are strictly online only. These types of classes are starting to trickle down to public schools, particularly high schools. In an effort to control class sizes, some students have the option of taking one or even all of their classes from home online. This is a great solution to overpopulated schools, but there are a few things you should consider before enrolling your child in distance learning classes affiliated with the public school system.
The types of online classes through public schools vary. Generally, they are general education classes, such as math and english. A school counselor will not likely recommend a student to take a distance learning class in a subject that the child struggles in. The online class is designed to be taken to accommodate a student’s schedule. Some students leave school early to complete the class at the end of the day at home.
In order for your student to succeed at distance learning classes, you need to monitor his learning so that he doesn’t procrastinate. It is easy to relax and do something else and leave your classwork for later. If your child falls too far behind, he can risk failing the class. Time management is key to succeeding in an online class, particularly if there is not a teacher in-person to hold him accountable for work.
Another downside to distance learning is the lack of interpersonal communication. Some classes in school require group projects and student feedback, a feature online classes lack.
