Journal 1: E-learning Programs

Coyle, S., Jones, T., and Pickle,S. (2009). E-learning programs come in all shapes and sizes. L&L, 37(2), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Publications/LL/LLIssues/Volume3720092010/SeptemberOctoberNo2/e_Learning_Programs_Come_in_All_Shapes_a.htm

"E-learning programs come in all shapes and sizes" is an article about online learning programs used in school around the nation. The Yukon Koyukuk District in Alaska is the first school district they talked about. I cannot believe that some teachers were teaching five different levels. All had different lesson plans and I cannot even imagine the stress those teachers would be under. To fix it they starting using a sort of virtual learning that made it so the teachers could use video and not physically have to be there. The second talks about public schools in Baltimore that are offering online courses for students who's schedules conflict with class periods. Some of these courses even included AP or Advanced placement classes. This program has been growing every year and has effected the students on a very positive level. The third talks about the Arkansas Department of Education Distance Learning Center. At this center the teachers are located on the main facility and students can watch the video of the class from around the state.

How would online-learning affect school test scores?
In the article it talks about how only two schools have had "non-improvement" using the system in Alaska. For all of the other schools, student test scores are on the rise. The program in Alaska has been improving so much that some classes have been deemed college credible by the University of Alaska at Fairbanks.

Do you think students should receive some regular time in the classroom instead of all internet interaction?
I think that it is necessary for students to have some time with a teacher face-to-face. Classes over the internet do not hit the specific needs of each child. I think that students should have one on one time with the teacher so that they could talk about what they are having trouble with and just have someone there that might help them if they are still uncomfortable with being taught over the internet.