Distance Learning
Distance Learning Formats
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), approximately 21% of K-12 public schools offered courses entirely online during the 2017 - 2018 school year. Each year, that number increases. In the wake of COVID-19, the number of students engaging in distance learning has been higher than ever. Understanding the different distance learning formats is critical to being able to support all of our students throughout their academic careers.
Asynchronous Learning
Asynchronous learning is designed for participants to engage with content on their own schedule and at their own pace. Teachers are required to develop an entire online course from start to finish before students engage with the content. Everything will be developed in a Learning Management System (LMS), including all instruction, activities, resources, and assessments.
WIU examples include eAcademy and Accelerate Education courses.
Synchronous Learning
Synchronous learning is designed for participants to engage with content at the same time but from different locations. Teachers will need to have a regular class schedule established and be prepared to keep students engaged as they deliver their instruction through a virtual meeting tool such as Zoom, Google Meets, or Microsoft Teams. The content developed in the Learning Management System (LMS) will help to reinforce the instruction delivered during the synchronous session and assess student understanding.
WIU examples include Pearson Connexus, World of Learning, and the Pursuit Online courses.
Hybrid / Blended Learning
Hybrid / Blended learning combines online learning materials with online interaction opportunities and in-person learning experiences. Students still attend their brick and mortar schools and learn from their teacher with their classmates. This instruction is paired with online instruction, allowing the teacher to have more time to develop collaborative in-person lessons, as well as opportunities for one-on-one engagement with students. The content developed in the Learning Management System (LMS) can be used to develop unit playlists, assessments, and basic instructional materials as well as practice and homework.
Flexible + Remote Instruction
Flexible and Remote instruction is most often used when there is a barrier to in-person learning, such as an emergency absence, a snow day, or a building closure. This format was most commonly experienced by students during the 2020 - 2021 school year as it allows districts to minimize interruptions to the delivery of the planned instruction. Teachers are required to pivot quickly to modify their upcoming lesson from an in-person format to an online format.
WIU examples include Flexible Instructional Days (FIDs) or Emergency Remote Learning Days instead of school cancellations.