The criteria for choosing an online school are practically the same as other schools. Parents and students should be aware, though, that geography can be a factor in choosing a virtual high school. There are four types - private, public, chartered and university-sponsored - and some are available only for residents of certain areas. That aside, the following checklist is applicable for any distance learning institution:
Available programs or specialization: Online schools have many program offerings, but it may not have the program that you want. Also, you might be more comfortable enrolling in a school that specializes in the field that you want to study. If the program that you want is available, check if graduates receive a diploma or just a certificate.
Is the school properly accredited? This ensures that you will not be wasting money, time and resources on a diploma that you can't use later to pursue a higher education or advance your career. The accreditation should be by recognized by creditors and include oversight as well as a license to operate.
Cost: Similar to traditional learning institutions, the cost for attending an online school can vary, from the very expensive to the practically free charter schools. Aside from tuition, some charge additional fees on training materials, graduation and the like. Learn what your payment options are, and it doesn't hurt to ask about discounts and scholarships, either.
Studying the curriculum and learning about the school's credit transfer policies can reduce costs and the time it takes to earn a diploma. Some schools allow students to skip courses already taken in another institution. Others offer credit for real-life work experience.
How are classes conducted? Knowing the learning format (e.g. students doing course work on their own versus online "classroom" sessions), technical and academic support offered, qualifications of the online teaching staff and the teacher-to-student ratio can help you decide if the online school under consideration fits your learning style and schedule. If possible, try to attend a demo class.
Track record and history: Basically, an online school that has been in operation for more than a couple of years is more stable than one that has been in business for less than that. A large number of students currently enrolled is not necessarily indicative of a good school. You should also try to find out the number of graduates, number of graduates who went on to college (for virtual high schools) and the drop-out rate.
Finally, parents and students can get additional feedback from current and past students and faculty. Other sources include online discussion boards and blogs on online schools. The important thing is to take time and exert effort to get to know several prospective schools before making a decision, instead of settling for the first school that seems to meet all the requirements. - 29891
Available programs or specialization: Online schools have many program offerings, but it may not have the program that you want. Also, you might be more comfortable enrolling in a school that specializes in the field that you want to study. If the program that you want is available, check if graduates receive a diploma or just a certificate.
Is the school properly accredited? This ensures that you will not be wasting money, time and resources on a diploma that you can't use later to pursue a higher education or advance your career. The accreditation should be by recognized by creditors and include oversight as well as a license to operate.
Cost: Similar to traditional learning institutions, the cost for attending an online school can vary, from the very expensive to the practically free charter schools. Aside from tuition, some charge additional fees on training materials, graduation and the like. Learn what your payment options are, and it doesn't hurt to ask about discounts and scholarships, either.
Studying the curriculum and learning about the school's credit transfer policies can reduce costs and the time it takes to earn a diploma. Some schools allow students to skip courses already taken in another institution. Others offer credit for real-life work experience.
How are classes conducted? Knowing the learning format (e.g. students doing course work on their own versus online "classroom" sessions), technical and academic support offered, qualifications of the online teaching staff and the teacher-to-student ratio can help you decide if the online school under consideration fits your learning style and schedule. If possible, try to attend a demo class.
Track record and history: Basically, an online school that has been in operation for more than a couple of years is more stable than one that has been in business for less than that. A large number of students currently enrolled is not necessarily indicative of a good school. You should also try to find out the number of graduates, number of graduates who went on to college (for virtual high schools) and the drop-out rate.
Finally, parents and students can get additional feedback from current and past students and faculty. Other sources include online discussion boards and blogs on online schools. The important thing is to take time and exert effort to get to know several prospective schools before making a decision, instead of settling for the first school that seems to meet all the requirements. - 29891
About the Author:
Jim has explored the choices that students have to participate in online high school and helps parents to find information. It is important that kids obtain a suitable education whether in public schools or participating in online school.
