3 Ways Online Learning Prepares Students for Life After Graduation
When students graduate high school, they should feel adequately prepared to attain their goals. High school is meant to set students up for success in life after graduation, guiding them towards potential future professions, college opportunities, or specialized trades and equipping them with the skills, awareness, and knowledge to succeed in these endeavors. However, many high school graduates report feeling underprepared for the challenges that come next.
One of our primary goals at VHS Learning is to equip students with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in their education, careers, and life. Our online courses provide learners with access to the education they want and need, but that their schools may be unable to provide due to budget or time constraints. By incorporating online learning opportunities, schools can help bridge this gap to access, helping students prepare for whatever their future holds.
Here are three ways online learning prepares students for life after graduation:
- Expands Access to Advanced and Specialized Coursework
One of the primary advantages of online learning is its ability to provide students with a wider selection of courses, including Advanced Placement® (AP), dual enrollment, and specialized electives that their local school may not offer. Research has shown that exposure to rigorous coursework in high school is a strong predictor of success in college and beyond. However, not all students have equal access to these opportunities, particularly those who live in rural or low-income communities.
Online learning helps to level the playing field by enabling students to take challenging courses that align with their interests and desire for more advanced educational experiences. VHS Learning provides students with the opportunity to explore higher-level coursework, including calculus, computer science, world languages, and 29 AP® courses. Our advanced and specialized courses not only strengthen students’ college applications, but the rigorous coursework also prepares students for the expectations of college and career training programs.
- Builds Career Readiness and Accelerates Learning
Career and technical education (CTE) programs are another pathway to prepare students for life after graduation, allowing them to explore various industries, gain hands-on experience, and consider potential career paths. Studies have shown that learners who participate in career-focused courses during high school are more likely to enroll in college, earn higher wages, and complete their degree programs. Even though this data is a compelling reason to provide CTE opportunities, staffing and budget constraints make it challenging for many schools to offer a diverse range of career-oriented programs.
Online learning presents an effective solution, connecting students with courses in high-demand fields such as business, computer science, healthcare, criminal justice, and environmental science. Online courses give learners a low-risk opportunity to explore potential career pathways before committing time and money to a degree or certification program. In addition, taking these courses in high school can give students a jump start on their postgraduate academic progress, allowing them to earn certifications, college credit, or other credentials before they even graduate. By providing online courses from VHS Learning, schools can broaden access to career-focused education, helping students make informed decisions about their next steps after graduation.
- Helps Develop Essential College, Career, and Life Skills
Academic proficiency is not the only indicator of student success beyond graduation––students also need essential life skills to thrive in their future endeavors. Success in college, careers, and beyond requires self-motivation, time management, and adaptability. Students must be able to set and meet deadlines, manage their projects and schedules, and advocate for themselves. Online learning provides a structured yet flexible learning environment for students to cultivate these abilities, all under the guidance and support of encouraging and helpful educators.
Furthermore, online learning provides an environment where students can practice communication and collaboration skills that will benefit them both socially and, in the classroom, or workplace. VHS Learning courses encourage learners to engage in discussions with a global network of peers, problem-solve to complete projects, and navigate digital tools and resources. These diverse learning experiences equip students with a stronger grasp of soft skills that prepare them for real-world challenges.
By supplementing classroom education with online learning, schools can help students prepare for success in their endeavors after graduating high school. Online courses enhance academic achievement and expand educational opportunities, creating more equitable learning experiences.
Many former VHS Learning students have shared that their experience with virtual courses helped them smoothly transition to college and professional environments. Our engaging learning environment and high-quality coursework empowers students to navigate college, careers, and their lives with confidence.
