Practically all modern education establishments have started to offer a new mode of getting education: online learning for kids. So, naturally, some parents are questioning whether or not it is worth trying and what the differences between virtual school and homeschool are.
If you are considering these options and are unsure how to make the right decision about this crucial milestone in your child’s life, this article by Kids Academy is just what you need! Whichever learning option you choose, you will find a wide range of materials to supplement your child’s learning on the Kids Academy website
A Quick Guide to Homeschooling
Here are the major features of homeschooling:
Parents as Instructors
If you are homeschooling, the parent teaches all the curriculum, while in a virtual school there are several teachers who act as specialists for their subjects.
Buying a Pre-made Curriculum
Parents may be concerned that they will have to create lessons like teachers do, but there is wide range of ready-made curriculum programs available that include all you need from unit plans to educational worksheets.
Ala-Carte Classes
To implement a more personalized approach, parents may purchase a program that will enable children to learn at their own pace. So students who need more practice or who are at a more advanced level will get different resources depending on their academic progress.
Faith-Based Programs
If you are homeschooling, you may purchase a curriculum with religious content which is not taught in public schools.
Homeschool Support Groups
One of the most common myths is that children who don’t attend traditional schools have no significant social networks. However, there are many parent/child associations that bring together students all over the country and organize meet-ups and sports events.
Is Virtual School the Same as Homeschool?
If students have classes at home anyway, what is so special about virtual schooling?
Teachers in Virtual Programs
Online learning programs offer real teachers that can deliver instruction, monitor classwork and give feedback on progress, while in homeschooling all this is performed by the parents.
Socialization in Class
Remote learning requires that learners log in at specific times, which allows kids to interact with their peers and build social skills.
State-Approved Virtual Programs
Many distance education programs are free because state-approved vendors cooperate with your state board to offer a free of charge remote education.
Standardized Exams
Kids will still be required to take standardized exams at their local school. Parents who are concerned about this may consider private virtual learning to avoid the requirement of taking the test
Parents will need to weigh all the pros and cons before making a decision which learning mode to choose for their young learners. Kids Academy’s mission is to ensure that families have all the information they need to make the best decision for their family.
