Thing 19- The Virtual Classroom

This was of particular interest to me since I am involved in this type of learning at my high school.  As a geometry paraprofessional I spend my mornings working with Novanet students in the blended program.  Novanet is not the best resource and they will be replacing it for the 2011-2012 school year, but I don't know what with as yet.  I know they will continue using it throughout the Summer School program.  This really does marry the relationship between face-to-face and on-line instruction.  The rate at which students progress through the Novanet lessons is certainly up to them, however, the face-to-face portion keeps them on track to move through the material at a steady rate.
As an elementary teacher working in a high school geometry class, I have enjoyed working through the Novanet lessons just ahead of the students, so that I may be an adequate mentor when they have questions.  Although the teacher answers most of the questions, I have been able to keep up and be of help to the students as well as the teacher.  On top of that I am finally learning geometry.

The other classes I am a paraprofessional in are the E2020 computer classes.  These are not blended and cover all of the curriculum.  The main teacher, tech parapro and myself are more limited in how we may help students in this format.  This is more about the on-line course.  We are able to help with mentoring in some areas but have to call for help in others. Both the Novanet and E2020 courses can be accessed at home as well as at school.

Navigating the Land of Online Learners is a great way to introduce the basics to educators and students alike.  After completing the student 'trip' you realize that the student has many responsibilities in being an on-line learner.  With these responsibilities come options that the traditional student does not have; such as scheduling when and how much time you will put into each class.  Students are responsible to contact their teacher or mentor with any questions or problems that come up while they are working through their on-line coursework.  Feedback is important and students need to have a balance of independence, feedback from peers, and input from educators.  In taking on-line courses students must know what their rights are and what they can expect in terms of course work helps, mentor help, teacher help.  They must know what their course work is building for them in their educational pursuits.  Is the class accredited?  Will it count towards graduation?  Taking an on-line course doesn't mean that a student shouldn't expect the full support and aid of a teacher, technician, or mentor.