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- Poway Unified School District
- On-line Course
Manual
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FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS
I already use the Internet in my
classroom, isn't it already a "virtual class?"
Most teachers utilize the Internet at some level in their classroom.
The difference between an on-line class and a traditional course
is that in an on-line environment students physically attend
class once a week as designated by the instructor. On-line classes
have been offered during the evening and periods 0, 1, 5 and
6. The true on-line experience will involve supplementing the
specific curriculum in an engaging way and utilizing the Internet
to maximize learning.
I'm interested in offering an on-line
class, what can I do to get started?
The best way to start an on-line class is to see what's out there
first. Start by talking to the on-line teachers at your site.
Discuss some of their successes and failures to see if it's something
that you may be interested in. Talk to your site administrator
and representatives who serve on the "Virtual Task Force."
Proposals take place during the fall semester in order to be
on the course requesters the following spring.
How much time is required to teach
an on-line class?
Starting an on-line class is time intensive, but extremely rewarding.
There is no specific amount of time required to create and maintain
an on-line course, but starting an on-line course is similar
to adding a new prep to your schedule. The first year will require
more time, after that you will be refining and improving the
quality of your course. Approved courses will receive funding
for summer training and development.
If on-line courses are so beneficial,
why don't all students take them?
On-line classes have been proven successful for many students
including, but not limited to ESL, alternative programs and special
education. There is no specific prerequisite to take an on-line
course but preliminary screening is recommended. Look for students
who are responsible, diligent and motivated. A student's G.P.A.
isn't necessarily an accurate gauge of whether or not a student
will be successful in an on-line class. Some students that don't
do well in a traditional setting will flourish in a virtual environment.
If you have a student in question, talk to their previous teachers
or sit down with them ahead of time so they will know what it
is they are getting into. There is a sample application for reference
included in the PUSD On-line Course Manual.
Which classes are the most successful
in a "virtual" environment?
Just about every class has the potential to be successful when
offered as an on-line class. Classes designed to be attended
by upperclassmen (juniors and seniors) have had a lot of success
because of the open period in their schedule, maturity and transportation
issues. Try to pick a class that would have the potential to
fill a class. Teaching an on-line class is challenging enough
without having to worry yourself about enrollment or a small
class size.
Will I be compensated for the extra
time involved with an on-line class?
Once an on-line class has been approved, the teacher will receive
the following summer funding:
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