International Research into K-12 Online Learning

I chose to look at the relevance of the pick & mix criteria for virtual school on the future success of my institutions future success. Listed below are the ones that I thought to be the most important for the future success and why I chose them.

1) e-Learning Strategy- Regularly updated e-Learning Strategy, integrated with Learning and Teaching Strategy and all related strategies
     It is important that programs stay up to date on the strategies.

2) Training- All staff trained in virtual school system use, appropriate to job type - and retrained when needed.
     This one should go without saying, but the last part is the most important. Retraining must be an     ongoing process.

3) Planning Annually- Integrated annual planning process for the virtual school department integrated with overall school and course planning.
     The virtual school should be just like the traditional program. Whether a one teaches online or in the traditional classroom, all schould plan together and evaluate the courses offered.

4) Technical Support to Staff- All staff engaged in the virtual school process have "nearby" fast-response technical support.
     This is critical to the success of a virtual school!

5) Decisions on Programs- There is effective decision-making for new virtual school courses across the whole school.
    Any school needs effective decision-making.

6) Leadership in eLearning- The capability of leaders to make decisions regarding virtual schooling is fully developed at departmental and school level.
    The departments and schools know what their needs are, so they should be able to make the decision on the development of the virtual school classes.

7) Reliability- The virtual school e-learning system is as reliable as the main systems students and staff are used to from their wider experience as students and citizens
    The only way you can be successful with a virtual school program, is for the computer system to be reliable.

8) Pupil Help Desk- Help Desk is deemed as best practice.
     To avoid problems and frustration, the students need to have a help desk when problems arise.