Thing #19 Virtual Classroom

ASD and MOCI staff can use technology to improve instruction for students. A course management system such as moodle can be used to present content and expereinces to students. Staff can use social networking tools to collaborate with their peers as well as things like Google docs to collaborate also.


Students need access to a computer that has:

• Adobe Reader
  Allows you to read a PDF (Portable Document File) document. PDF documents are created so content may not be altered.
• Flash
  Allows you to experience mutimedia on the web.
• Java
  Allows you to view applications written in java programming language.
• Apple Quicktime
  Allows you to play back audio and/or video. Originally designed for Mac computers but can be used on both Macs and PCs.
• Windows Media Player
  Allows you to play back audio and/or video. Originally designed for PCs but can be used on both platforms. 
• Real Player
  Allows you to play back audio and/or video. This is an older version but may still be needed.

Why do you want to take an online course?

How is online learning different from face-to-face?

Do you think you can learn this way?

What happens if you don’t like it? Can you drop?

Will you have a teacher you can talk to?

Will you still graduate on time?

Will you be taking this at home or at school?

Do you need your own computer? Do you need Internet access at home?

How will you get tech support?

Are there any costs?

Questions for Students to consider when planning to take an online course:

Will a student be part of the planning team?

What are my choices for online courses?

Can anyone take an online course?

How many courses can I take?

Do I need a computer at home?

How much access will I have at my school?

Who will support me with technical issues?

What if I have my own laptop – can I use it?

Do I need special skills to take an online course?

Will this be harder than a face-to-face course?

Will there be any charges?

What if I don’t like it, can I change or drop it? Is there a penalty?

Will I be able to see a review of the course and/or instructor?

Do I need my parents' permission?

Check out Navigating the Land of Online Learning.  The game allows students, parents, teachers, technology coordinators to look at all the considerations to online learning.  By looking at these questions, you can see that there is alot involved in being a successful online student.

Questions for Parents to ask Students: