Net Choices, Net Gains: Supplementing the High School Curriculum with Online Courses

Author: Aronson, J., Timms, M.
Publisher: WestEd
Publication Date: 2004
Publication City: San Francisco
Publication State: CA
Full text available online at: http://www.wested.org/online_pubs/KN-03-02.pdf
Available for purchase online at: http://www.wested.org/cs/we/view/rs/724

Abstract (written by Author/Publisher)

Online learning programs can help schools enrich their curriculum. But a school’s decision to participate in such a program and its choice of program should be based on a solid understanding of what program characteristics contribute to successful online learning for students. Drawing from a review of the research literature, interviews with national experts in online learning, and the authors’ evaluation of a statewide online learning program in California, this Knowledge Brief identifies key issues that schools should investigate when considering the online learning option. Net Choices, Net Gains makes recommendations related to online curriculum and assessment, effective student support, technology, professional development for online instructors and student-support staff, policy and administration, funding, and outreach.
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Kurt Larsen, Director, Regional Technology in Education Consortium at WestEd comments, "Drawing from a review of the research literature, interviews with national experts in online learning, and the authors' evaluation of a statewide online learning program in California, this Knowledge Brief identifies key issues that schools should investigate when considering the online learning option."