‘Teacher cheerleaders’ make online learning successful by Laura Devaney

Dennis Pierce, Editor, eSchool News writes, "In today's top story, the 2011 National Online Teacher of the Year, Kristin Kipp, reveals her secrets to successful online instruction."

Photo: eSchool News

As online learning reaches more students in districts across the country, some educators struggle with how they can become successful virtual teachers—but tips from the 2011 National Online Teacher of the Year might help.

Kristin Kipp, who teaches English online at the 21st Century Virtual Academy in Jefferson County, Colo., has been teaching online for three years. Kipp teaches 11th and 12th graders, is an instructional leader for the English department, and is a part-time adjunct English teacher with Colorado Online Learning.

Jefferson County’s 21st Century Virtual Academy is a district-led program that accepts students both from the district and across the state. Many Jefferson County students are enrolled part-time in the virtual academy, taking two or three classes at a local high school and a few courses online. This, said Kipp, has been especially successful, because students are still in “school mode” for their online courses.

Students range from those considered at-risk owing to issues such as poor grades or low attendance, to those hoping to fit in a few extra courses before heading off to college.

Because online learning can help such a wide range of students, Kipp said access is of the utmost importance.

“I don’t necessarily think that full-time online education is the best approach for every kid, but for those who need it, it is absolutely essential. I have so many kids who wouldn’t graduate if this program didn’t exist,” she said. “It’s so important that we value online education and make sure all kids have access.”
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Source: eSchool News