Online Learning...Buzzing In Oregon

A new article written by Denise Herrenbruck, guest columnist for The Stump caught my eye this morning...the article is entitled "A Strategic Vision for Online Learning".

Looks like state officials may be putting the brakes on when it comes to the growth of online learning in the state while parents are none too happy with this decision.  Ms. Herrenbruck’s take is valid…”A strategic vision for online learning is the key to finding a solution that's best for kids.”

Bottom line I think that all parties can walk away from this with what they are looking for….state officials need to look at the overall strategy; non traditional education should be looked at from not only a K-12 perspective but a P-16 perspective...it should be integrated throughout the learning and process and beyond.  This will not happen overnight but steps can certainly move towards that goal.

Family makeup is different; lifestyles are different; some students are pursuing careers earlier than before and must juggle their academics and career while still being a teenager or pre teen; some students are already raising a family and need to continue their schooling to keep normalcy and a sense of direction for their future; other students move around alot as their parents are trying to make ends meet and need to go where the work is; still others become overlooked, bored, ridiculed, or just plain lost in the huge public school system and will fall through the cracks if they aren't at least given another opportunity to make it.  It's important to show those parents that this option is still available while state officials continue to implement the long term strategy.

So what should this non traditional learning look like?  That depends…on the objectives and the make up of the students.  It may even be helpful to offer different components (teleconferencing, videos, interactive content, direct instruction, tutoring, ebooks, etc.) for different students or different learning styles so that everyone could truly benefit.  I think the fact that it's being discussed is a step in the right direction.

State officials, just some suggestions...get the right folks to the table, come up with a comprehensive plan...share your thoughts with the public and allow them to help you ; get buy in and participation and you'll be surprised how well it will be received!  Best of luck!