Pros and Cons of Virtual Learning
Virtual learning is a hot topic in the education field these days. It’s easy to see why- with so many students not attending school, virtual learning provides a way for them to get an education from home. However, those who prefer the traditional form of education, you may consider enrolling in a catholic school. But is it worth all of the hype?
This article explores both sides of the argument and decides if virtual learning can be beneficial or detrimental for their child’s future, as articulated by Father George Rutler.
Pros:
1. Flexibility
Father George Rutler believes that a student can attend school anytime, anywhere as long as they have access to a computer and the Internet. They don’t even need to be in the same country/state/province as their instructors and classmates.
2. No distractions
A student can attend virtual school without any distractions. They can focus on learning without being distracted by the other students or their physical education class.
3. Classes for all levels
Virtual schools have classes designed specifically for all types of learners, including those who are athletically gifted, academically gifted, athletically challenged, and academically challenged.
4. Low cost
Virtual school programs are open to all students, allowing them to attend school without paying tuition or other fees, which can put an average private school out of reach for many families.
5. Custom schedules
Father Rutler says that a student’s virtual education schedule can be tailored to their needs. If someone has to work in the evenings, virtual school lets them attend class in the morning when they can.
6. Homeschooling
Father George Rutler believes that virtual education can be used as an educational supplement for already home-schooled students. This allows them to stay ahead of other students while they are not in the classroom.
7. More time to focus on instruction
Virtual schools allow students’ parents to spend more time with their children when they are not at work or school. Parents can also turn to childcare services to look out for their children if they are at work.
Cons:
1. Less socializing
Rutler believes that students who do not attend physical schools might not get the chance to develop strong personal relationships with their peers like they would at a traditional school. This can make it harder for them to reach adulthood and need to work or study in teams.
2. More distractions
Rutler believes that no distractions are not always a good thing. He says that virtual school students have more time to “surf the Internet and watch television.” This can limit their ability to develop themselves as human beings fully.
3. Little personal guidance
Rutler believes that it’s difficult for a student’s parents to attain a complete understanding of their children’s programs when they cannot monitor them in person. This can lead to issues when assessments and evaluations need to be done face-to-face.
4. Less physical activity
Virtual education requires a student to sit at a computer for hours upon end, which does not provide many opportunities for personal physical activity. This is why parent opt for afterschool classes, e.g., tumbling classes.
5. Inaccurate grades
Father Rutler believes that virtual schools tend to give their students inaccurate grades. This is because the student’s test scores are often incorrect or missing, which can “mislead parents and lead to a harmful dependence on easy credit.”
6. Little accountability
Virtual school programs are not required to follow regulations that physical schools have, leading to problems with accountability.
7. Low standards
Virtual schools often lack the human resources and curriculum needed to provide students with a high-quality education. This can cause them “to be fairly entitled about their grades,” which won’t prepare them for college if and when they decide to attend.
Many people believe that virtual schools still have a long way to go before they can provide students with the same high-quality, one-on-one education as physical schools can. However, some people like Father George see virtual education as an alternative for those who seek it and do not have access to traditional education.