On-line education is still in its infancy, and as such it has to potential to evolve and become anything, However, with that potential, lies the ambiguity. With a huge variance in standard, mode of operation, and even how on-line learning is facilitated, it is often first imperative to define what is meant by on-line learning, before the merits can be discussed.
Once the definition of on-line learning has been established the individual merits can be weighed. It has been estimated that, "sixty-five percent of students will be employed in jobs that don't exists yet" ( source). Because as teachers, we are trying to teach to a job that does not exist yet, it is imperative to change the way we teach, and adapt to the new ways our learners learn.
Since it has been established that there are over a million current K-12 students taking some form of on-line learning (link). The trend has been set, it is just a matter of defining and setting standards for uniformity. On-line education also varies significantly from the K-12 to the adult, college and business settings. With different standards and different expectations.
Who are on-line learners?
High school students
Middle school students
Former home-school students
Former home-bound student
Students who are advanced learners
Students with medical needs
Students who enjoy computers
Students who need to complete an extra class or redo a class they have already taken
Students seeking extra certifications
(Anyone is a potential on-line learner)
Why are students choosing on-line learning?
There are multiple reasons why students are choosing on-line learning:
1) Traditional home school students - expanding learning in specific content
2) Provides alternatives for special learning needs and medical needs
3) Provides a different type of interaction
4) Avoidance of negative social interaction
5) Enjoy computers
A thought about why on-line education is so important in the post secondary setting. (A plug for the MOOC)
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