One of the common myths about online learning is that students are disconnected and don’t have opportunities to interact with others.
While that can be true in certain situations, many online schools work to provide opportunities for students to interact and develop connected relationships with peers and teachers.
We pride ourselves on presenting a connected learning experience. Especially after the COVID-19 pandemic when we saw the effects on mental health that came from little interaction with others.
So now it’s time to get back to connected learning.
BUT…..
What exactly is a connected learning experience?
There are many aspects to connected learning, but here are just a few highlights:
Students are more invested in their learning when they are EXCITED about what they are learning
Connection happens when students feel like they have teachers and peers supporting them
Opportunities are created that allow students to explore their interests and see what they want to learn
How can an online program present opportunities for connected learning?
Well, that depends on the online program. For some, they let the students loose, leaving them to their own devices while others work to implement a sense of community to be interconnected with teachers and peers.
Some students can thrive in an “on their own” type environment, but others need the high-level support of interaction with peers and teachers.
Where is the balance?
We allow students to choose how often they would like 1:1 interaction with their academic mentor. If they want more support, we are able to provide that, but if they don’t need as much support or interaction, we can scale it back.
Other ways connected learning is effective is through experiential learning. Experiential learning gives students a chance to explore the interests they are already participating in, like music or dance, and get high school credit for those activities. This gives them further incentive to continue exploring their talents and interests outside the classroom, while also benefiting them in their academics.
We have found that most students benefit from a level of connected learning.
The proof is in the words.
Parents and students are excited about the connected learning too:
How are you able to create connected learning opportunities in your own life?
Share your thoughts! How has your own school presented opportunities for connected learning?
Let us know!
Anjilee & Sara