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How to Choose the Best Online High School for Your Child

September 08, 2023
2 min read

In a rapidly advancing digital age, the educational sector is not left behind. The rise of online high schools might have been the stuff of science fiction decades ago, but now it's a widely accepted alternative or supplement to traditional brick-and-mortar classrooms. Given the right circumstances and resources, online high schools can provide a rich, diverse and comprehensive educational experience for your child.

But how can you wade through the plethora of options and select the most effective online high school that aligns with your child’s academic needs and future goals?

The first step is understanding the two types of online high schools: private and public. Private online high schools, like their conventional counterparts, charge tuition but often offer a more robust curriculum and diverse course selection. Public online high schools are state-run and free of charge, with curriculum aligned to state education standards. Your choice between these two types will largely be influenced by factors such as your financial capability, your state of residence, and your child's educational needs.

Secondly, consider accreditation. Accreditation is a process in which an external authority assesses a school to ensure it meets certain standards of education quality and integrity. An accredited school is a hallmark of reliability; it guarantees that the school has met and continues to uphold those standards. Therefore, ensure that the online high school you choose is regionally accredited by organizations recognized by either the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or the Department of Education (DoE).

Thirdly, analyze the curriculum in-depth. Is it comprehensive, rigorous, and aligned with your child's academic goals? A curriculum that honors individual learning styles and pace, focusing on mastery rather than time spent in class, has proven to be more effective according to Bloom's 2 Sigma Problem. Does the school offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses, dual enrollment options, or vocational courses? Such offerings can provide your child with a competitive edge in college applications or job markets.

Next, scrutinize the level of student support provided. Although online high schools promote independent learning, support from qualified teachers is still crucial. Investigate the student-to-teacher ratio, availability of teachers, and the support system for students struggling acadically. Moreover, consider schools that offer counseling services for college and career guidance.

Assessing technological requirements is another integral step. Do you have reliable, high-speed internet access and a compatible device to access the learning platform? Furthermore, consider the user-friendliness of the platform. According to the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), ease of use and perceived usefulness determine an individual’s acceptance and use of a technology.

Finally, consider the social dynamics. Many parents worry about the isolation their child might face studying online. Consider schools that offer opportunities for social interaction, such as online clubs, meet-ups, or partnerships with local schools for extracurricular activities.

The selection process is an intricate one, requiring careful evaluation of various aspects of an online high school. The task may seem daunting, but the reward is invaluable: an optimal, customized learning environment that potentially magnifies your child’s academic prowess, preparing them for collegiate success and beyond. It is wise to remember, however, that no perfect choice exists. Each online high school comes with its strengths and weaknesses, and the decision process is ultimately a matter of aligning these with your child's unique needs and aspirations.

The ongoing tectonic shifts in the educational landscape, propelled by the digital revolution, render online high school education an exciting frontier. As a parent, your meticulous approach to choosing the best online high school for your child can be a game-changer, influencing their future prospects in a rapidly globalizing, digitized world.

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Education
Online
Selection

Related Questions

The two types of online high schools are private and public.

Accreditation ensures that the school meets certain standards of education quality and integrity. It is a hallmark of reliability.

I don't know.

Although online high schools promote independent learning, support from qualified teachers is crucial for students who may struggle academically.

I don't know.

Considering the social dynamics is important because many parents worry about the isolation their child might face studying online. Schools that offer opportunities for social interaction can mitigate this concern.

You should consider whether you have reliable, high-speed internet access and a compatible device to access the learning platform, as well as the user-friendliness of the platform.

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