Virtual Schools

After viewing the youtube video on Connections Academy, I really got to see a specific example of an effective model of virtual schools. I've read and heard all about it before but to see on in action was totally new. It was very interesting to see how a family shares their experience with having school at home, made possible by technology. Lessons, homework, chatting with instructor was all parts of virtual school that I got to see closely. The family had a very positive experience with it. The children enjoyed learning at the comfort of their own home, at their own pace. It's the new way to learn. However, when I imagined myself in that learning environment, something felt missing - this new innovative way to learn lacked what I thought were the best part of school. Learning in the classroom, having lunch in the cafeteria, and playing with friends during recess were something that I enjoyed so much as a student. So all of these thoughts came down to one conclusion - a blended learning environment. Learning partly in the classroom and partly virtually will allow students to enjoy the benefits of both worlds. As e-learning gains more attention and support, learning should be provided in a way that is a combination of classroom and online.