6 Online Learning Insights VHS Learning Site Coordinators Should Know
When a school implements an online learning program, the site coordinator is at the center of the experience, ensuring online learning works for every student, teacher, and family that participates.
At VHS Learning, we train educators and school staff to become online learning site coordinators. These leaders recruit eligible students to take online courses, coordinate and implement program policies, and monitor student progress––advocating for learners along the way. VHS Learning site coordinators play a key role in the success of their school’s online learning program.
Site coordinators keep students and the school community engaged with online learning, helping to build a successful program. With this in mind, here are six insights every sight coordinator should know about online learning:
- Online courses expand opportunities and open up new worlds for students
With VHS Learning, students can take courses their school might otherwise not be able to offer. An online learning partnership taps into VHS Learning’s 250+ unique courses, spanning from oceanography to fashion design to AP Computer Science. The specialized coursework in VHS Learning courses helps students expand their horizons and consider innovative career tracks. Plus, learners routinely collaborate with peers hundreds of miles away, gaining academic proficiency while also gaining new perspectives.
- A dedicated time and space at school works best for online courses
By designating a classroom and daily block of time for online coursework, site coordinators can help set students up for online learning success. Instead of squeezing coursework into study breaks and lunch time, a dedicated time and space for online learning enables students to settle in and really focus on their learning. Additionally, this structure reinforces that virtual courses are as important as any in-person class, while freeing teens from the stress of finishing modules at midnight.
- Online learning gives every student space to learn in their unique way
The traditional classroom has always assumed that every student will successfully absorb learning in the same way, at the same pace, and in the same social setting. Virtual learning breaks down this traditional approach, instead providing learners with a flexible space to learn in their own unique way. With VHS Learning, each student has some level of control over how they progress through multimedia lessons, discussions and feedback, and interactive assignments––all on a schedule and in an environment that meets their personal needs.
- Choice and flexibility help independent learners thrive
Site coordinators often discover that self-motivated students truly flourish in virtual learning environments. Many independent learners enjoy the format of online learning and the control it provides them over scheduling and completing their course at their own pace. With VHS Learning’s intuitive learning platform, all learning material is easily accessible, allowing high-achievers to focus their time on mastering the content, not searching for resources.
- Online learning helps schools close personnel gaps
Recruiting, training, and retaining educators who are certified to teach less common electives and Advanced Placement courses is becoming harder each year. VHS Learning helps schools fill personnel gaps with licensed, certified instructors from across the country. This allows schools to provide students with the courses they want to take, while removing the administrative and financial burden of hiring new teachers. The cost savings is substantial––one site coordinator estimates her school’s annual partnership cost comes in around 10 percent of a single teacher’s salary, a compelling trade‑off when staffing shortages make recruitment tough.
- Virtual classrooms level the playing field for shy students
Virtual classrooms can be a haven for students who feel anxious in the classroom. Online learning strips away many of the factors that keep shy students from participating in traditional classrooms: worrying about who else is in their class, wondering how they’re being perceived, or feeling anxious about raising their hand. In virtual classrooms, shy students are more inclined to interact––both with their teacher and their peers––because no one knows them personally. This can really enhance the learning experience for students that don’t typically engage in discussions or collaborative learning.
Schools that implement online learning programs can expand and enhance their students’ learning opportunities––without stretching their staff or budget to the breaking point.
As your school’s VHS Learning site coordinator, you lead the way for a successful program that nurtures every learner. Knowing the ins and outs of online learning can prepare you to be the best site coordinator for your school community, creating an engaging and enjoyable program for students and teachers alike.
Read Katie Kiniry’s article in eSchool News to learn how the VHS Learning site coordinator from Hartford, CT unlocked new potential at her school with the power of an online learning program.
