Virtual Learning in K--12 Education: Successful Instructional Practices and School Strategies.

摘要

The use of virtual learning for K--12 education in the US has risen dramatically in the past 10 years, and research demonstrates emerging technology is challenging traditional instructional practices. However, the problem is technology and virtual learning options are growing so quickly that educational leaders are unprepared to identify the most effective instructional practices and school models within virtual education. This study used a three-phase qualitative research design to incorporate and analyze data through the Delphi method. A panel of 11 virtual school experts from across the nation identified the most effective virtual instruction practices and school models within K--12 education. Participants were chosen through purposive sampling. The primary Delphi study utilized three rounds of questions to obtain knowledge about the best virtual school designs and instructional practices. The panelists identified five instructional strategies and three school models as being relevant. Findings suggest that the most successful virtual instruction practices are the following: (a) teachers provide daily virtual feedback; (b) the teacher customizes each virtual activity based on the learner's needs; (c) students access the curriculum virtually, but have a physical teacher available for assistance; (d) the virtual environment is designed to be self-paced and self-directed; and (e) video lessons and demonstrations are used online. The most successful virtual school models are the following: (a) a blended learning model with virtual and face-to-face instruction; (b) traditional brick and mortar school with full-time virtual classes and a trained teacher to facilitate learning; and (c) a fully virtual school with online collaboration and multiple communication avenues. One recommendation for future research is to conduct a longitudinal study of the relationship between the successful virtual instruction strategies and various school models. Additionally, future research should examine the correlation between successful virtual instruction strategies and school models and student achievement.