Online Summer School Growing

Online summer school classes are on the upswing. Many schools across the country are now allowing students to make up credits online – not only does this free up more time for students to enjoy their summer vacations, but it also reduces the stigma associated with the need for summer school.

The US Department of Education reports that about 6000 public schools – one third across the country – offer online classes. Each class is 90 minutes long and can be “attended” at any time during the day.

Online material can be sent via email, students can talk with teachers via IM, and work with other students in online discussions groups.

For one mother, the online classes have been a blessing. Her daughter, who has ADD, finds the regular classroom setting difficult. Online classes allow her to re-read material and refer back to it when needed.

Teens can also use summer courses to get ahead. Rather than using summer school as a means to make up credits, students use them for extra credit or for courses they may not get during the regular school year or at their regular school. Online classes allow students to explore more scholastic options.

Via seattle pi Tags: summer school, summer courses, summer classes, online education, online school, online courses, extra credit, learning, virtual learning