In the Grade School

Another segment of e-learning is that which is done within grade schools. Often, when e-learning is used at this level, it is in combination with other forms of e-learning, usually the traditional classroom learning. According to a recent federal study done by the Education Department, students in more than one-third of U.S. school districts take courses over the Internet or through video conferences. This means that about 5,500 districts out of more than 15,000 school districts in the United States have students learning online.

Another segment of e-learning is that which is done within grade schools. Often, when e-learning is used at this level, it is in combination with other forms of e-learning, usually the traditional classroom learning. According to a recent federal study done by the Education Department, students in more than one-third of U.S. school districts take courses over the Internet or through video conferences. This means that about 5,500 districts out of more than 15,000 school districts in the United States have students learning online.

The trend is most common in rural areas because it allows for students who might not have access to certain courses or programs the ability to participate. Often, when e-learning is used for grade-school students, it is used in addition to other methods of learning delivery rather than the sole deliverer. This is because working alone in front of a computer for long lengths of time can be lonely and is not considered ideal for younger students. Students may go to a classroom for part of the time and then finish their coursework on their own at their computer.

But the use of online learning opens up many exciting avenues for the world of science, mathematics and geography, among others. For example, students might be able to dissect a frog through a simulated lab experience. Geography students might be able to “travel” to another country for an hour with online photographs and audio from people living in that particular country. Math students might be able to play games with the math problems they need to work through.

Teachers and learning developers alike, will admit that online learning can only go so far—that students do not actually get to dissect a frog or travel to another country. It is indeed not the same thing as the real experience, but a simulated version of the learning is a much better version than no version at all.

Posted on March 28, 2006 at 4:54 PM

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