Online learning has become an increasingly popular method of learning over the past decade; however, many people are still concerned that it doesn’t deliver the same level of education as more traditional, in-person school.
Over the past two years, even those who initially opted for in-person school were forced to do some online schooling. This allowed for a better comparison between the two options to be made.
With most students now having had the opportunity to experience both virtual and in-person school, more people are starting to realize that learning is not one size fits all and that it’s important to make a choice based on what will work best for each individual student.
If you are considering enrolling your child in a Canadian online school, here are some ways doing so can help prepare them for university.
Teaches Self-Discipline and Time Management
Virtual school often requires more self-discipline than in-person school, especially when classes are asynchronous. Because there is no one directly in front of you to motivate you or remind you to get your work done or attend classes, students must develop self-discipline.
Students in virtual school must also become effective at managing their time. With less structure to their school day, they must learn how much time different tasks will take and how to delegate their time effectively in order to ensure all work is completed by the deadline.
Learning self-discipline and time management can be really helpful for students when they get to university because class sizes go from around 30 students to upwards of 300. In those settings, professors can’t monitor every student to ensure they get their work done. Learning how to become self-disciplined in high school will thus help prepare students to excel in university.
Allows Students to Become More Comfortable with Technology
In such a digital world, having an exceptional understanding of technology is essential for success. With online learning, students are exposed to different online programs and platforms that they must use on a daily basis. Not only does this teach them the skills to operate the given applications, but it also teaches them how to adapt to new technologies.
University courses often have online portals that students will need to use to access their assignments, grades, and schedules. Additionally, depending on what course they are taking, technology may be a big part of their work and becoming comfortable with various technologies in high school will be instrumental in their university success.
Broadens International Reach of Students
With virtual school, there is, of course, no physical location that students must be able to get to. This means that students can study from anywhere in the world as long as they have access to a computer and the internet. Not only does this give students the freedom and flexibility to learn from various institutions around the world, but it also allows them to connect with students internationally.
Having an expanded worldview allows students to see the world from a different perspective which can help them excel once they get to university.