Reagan Kiser
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I decided which subjects I would focus on and for how long. The additional time I gained gave me the freedom to add things to my day like volunteering and shadowing experiences as well as a part time job.
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– Reagan Kiser
Eight years ago, I entered my first online classroom. I was curious to see what a classroom without the restrictions of the four walls of a brick and mortar school would be like. What I found was a combination of freedom and opportunity. Compared to brick and mortar schools, my online classes were free from disruptions. I was able to focus on academics and finish my work in half the time. I was free to arrange my schedule. I decided which subjects I would focus on and for how long. The additional time I gained gave me the freedom to add things to my day like volunteering and shadowing experiences as well as a part time job.
These opportunities led to a new sense of responsibility which helped me succeed not only academically but personally. While those that advocate for more traditional schools may question giving this much freedom to their students, I believe it is actually what students need to bridge gaps in learning and accommodate individual differences. Freedom to plan my day allows me to spend more time on subjects in which I struggle or need to catch up.
Traditional brick and mortar schools are confined by policies that require students spend the same amount of time in each of their classes regardless if that is the correct amount of time for them. This leaves some students struggling and others bored. The result is the same. Students are left with no motivation to learn. I found that when I was given control of my schedule, not only did my grades improve but also my motivation to learn. Although learning gaps are usually defined as students missing out on what they should have learned, I think the definition should also include missing out on what they could have learned. Online and blended learning fills these gaps by providing opportunities to take challenging classes.
When given a choice of classes, I was able to take honors and AP courses in every subject area. This was not an option to many of my friends in traditional schools due to problems with staffing and student interest. In addition, the flexibility of my schedule allowed me to take dual enrollment classes. These college classes not only challenged me but also helped build confidence in my ability to handle future college courses. Without my online school, I would have never had the opportunity to find out just how far I could go.