Wondering where to start? iNACOL’s “Guide to Choosing the Right Online Program”
Posted by Diana Cieslak - July 20, 2010For most families, public school is the only option. And for many of
those families, “public school” means the 
traditional brick-and-mortar school
down the street.
traditional brick-and-mortar school
down the street.As a result, many parents might feel like they’re out of practice
when it comes to researching and making decisions about their child’s’
education. They feel inexperienced and inadequate at the thought of
evaluating the quality and effectiveness of one school compared to
another.
With online public school, though, options are a pivotal part of the
educational equation.
So if you’re a parent, where do you start? What are the right
questions to ask when you’re comparing online programs? It’s a daunting
task, figuring out the best possible educational track for your kids; a lot rides
on that decision.
Fortunately, some pioneers paved the way. The International Association for K-12 Online Learning (iNACOL) is an organization that provides research and resources that advance quality online education. This year they produced a comprehensive guidebook called “A Parent’s Guide to Choosing the Right Online Program.” It answers questions like “Why is online learning growing so rapidly?”, “How is online learning different from homeschooling?”, and “What is the right curriculum mix for your child’s way of learning?”
You can also find great inform
ation on topics like curriculum,
transferability of credit, accreditation, “Student athletes and NCAA
certification,” and others. One of the guide’s most valuable components
is the collection of checklists that give parents specific questions to
ask.
ation on topics like curriculum,
transferability of credit, accreditation, “Student athletes and NCAA
certification,” and others. One of the guide’s most valuable components
is the collection of checklists that give parents specific questions to
ask.The menu of public school options is expanding as we continue to
recognize the diversity of students’ learning styles and needs. With
options in the picture, parents need to learn how to choose the best one
for their child. Fortunately, there’s help.
For more information on online learning--including student and parent testimonials and powerful stories!--visit EFF's new project at www.iLearnProject.com.
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