On Line Learning in K12 Schools

I created a pod cast for my colleagues to listen to while they work at their desks. This is an intro to on line learning in k-12 schools to hopefully get faculty to start thinking about using LMS and other online learning modules.

Click on the link at the top of the page under pod cast, and choose the on line learning in k-12 schools publication.

Below is the transcript of the podcast in case colleagues want to go back and read what I was talking about for reference.


transcript:
Several of you have seen and used learning management systems, and maybe did not even think about it or the instructional gaps and instructional support they can offer. Many have used blackboard, moodle, RCampus or something similar in online classes.

Web-based course management systems are a totally contained (not open to uninvited users) platform that a teacher could use for class. It is like being able to combine threaded discussions (like face book), email, class website, resources, and a blog all into one, totally contained site for your classes.

The totally contained part is really nice for both the teacher and the student. With technology and the web being used in so many different ways, at times it is hard to keep track and find what you are looking for.

In the simplest form learning management systems can be used to post assignments. This way when students are absent, or know when they are going to be gone, they can simply log in and see what is going on that day. Worksheets and instructions can be easily uploaded for students to see also. With the digital age we live in, many text book companies offer electronic texts, supplementary materials like practice quizzes, and maybe even instructional videos. These links could be easily accessible for the students on the same management system.

These LMS platforms are nice for having students submit assignments electronically. All the assignments will be in one place, making it easy for you to comment, grade, and return. The alternative to this is having students email you assignments, which generates hundreds of emails.

Students could use your classroom site as a place to have threaded discussions with each other. It could be used as a resource for students to post questions and answers about assignments. They could help each other, explore concepts and discuss or debate material.

If you assign projects that students have to sign up times to present, the LMS platforms can make this job easy too. Students can simply log in, pick a date on the calendar, and they are signed up.

We are all pressed for time as teachers. Setting up a LMS does take an initial investment. So there is time required on the front end, but in the long run it will save you lots of time that will pay off over and over again.

LMS platforms are not the only way to use an online learning module.

Many schools offer digital academy’s for students to take classes that are not offered in house. While they are not a replacement for a teacher, they are a nice way to let students expand their horizons and options by opening other avenues of learning. More and more classes at the university level have online components, if not offered completely online. As a 21st century school, it only seems appropriate that we expose our students to some of this learning.

With No Child Left Behind there has been even greater enfaces on credit recovery to help those failing students graduate. Digital credit recovery gives students options for making up classes. Because it is digital, it could be done on a students own time and/or pace. Sometimes digital credit recovery is looked down upon because teachers think a student should retake the entire class if they fail. Inevitably as educators we want students to understand the material. That is what digital credit recovery programs due. Students have to pass tests that assesses their knowledge of the curriculum. Where the students’ understanding is not adequate, these programs offer tutorial lessons that the students complete to help their understanding. They are then tested again over the material.

The bottom line is that it is essential that as teachers we use as many different techniques and resources as possible to teacher our students. Learning management systems are a nice way to offer some of these resources.