For years online learning was the wayward cousin of education reform, but COVID-19 has forced a new conversation about its potential. School districts have shifted their lessons to ed-tech products, families are logging on, and we’re on our way to a national experiment on an unprecedented scale. Will students enjoy their newfound flexibility and freedom? Will they miss the social interactions of public schools? Will parents be overwhelmed?
In a recent episode of the “Education is Power” broadcast, Citizen Stewart chatted with Tillie Elvrum, President of the National Coalition for Public School Options. Tillie debunks some myths about homeschooling and online learning and warns that we should temper expectations for what kind of distance learning schools will roll out. The discussion touches on how what we are currently experiencing is closer to “crisis education” than true online learning or homeschooling.
Tillie also touches on how online learning has long been an option for students with special needs, at-risk children, and other student populations. Watch the video to learn more about what true, successful online learning looks like and how parents and educators alike can learn to understand all of the resources available.
