What is and how does an online middle school program work?
As we have seen in recent times, online learning is becoming an increasingly common educational option.
We know that for many parents it can still be a great challenge to trust this methodology, and that is why today in this blog we will explain what an online middle school program is and how it works, so you can be sure that you are putting your child’s education in good hands.
Online Middle School Program
What is it?
Like a face-to-face middle school program, an online middle school program typically includes grades six, seven, and eight, offering a curriculum and grading designed to help students be successful in meeting state standards and of the online school.
How does an online middle school program work?
Students who are attending their middle school online receive the same academic content as those who attend a face-to-face middle school, unlike virtual students who must be located in front of their computers in order to take their classes.
Lessons or “modules” include video presentations and short quizzes. Students work on these modules independently, and the quizzes help determine if you are ready to move on to the next lesson.
An online middle school program is often accompanied by activities that are not done online, such as completing worksheets or doing science experiments.
Do students learn at their own pace in an online middle school program?
The online middle school program is often described as an educational alternative that offers more independence and allows students to learn at their own pace.
To complete an online middle school program, students are required to complete a certain number of hours per week of online lessons or modules. This ensures that students are progressing correctly with their academic training.
These requirements can make struggling students feel like they always have to struggle to keep up. Ask the school if it offers a schedule that is flexible and at the same time gets kids on the road to graduation.
Assistance for Students in an Online Middle School Program
In addition, in an online middle school program, students often have a “learning coach” who assists with any questions regarding their classes.
Student Responsibility in an Online Middle School Program
Children who attend an online middle school program must develop greater responsibility than students in face-to-face schools. Why? Because they are responsible for meeting the due dates of each of their assignments and assessments without a teacher behind reminding them.
Understanding that the average age in which children are attending middle school is between 12 and 15 years old, they are children who already have a certain degree of autonomy, so they do not need their parents to be on top of them to remind them of the things that they must do.
However, the simple virtual methodology demands that the parents or guardians of the children be more involved in the academic process of their children compared to the traditional face-to-face school, since it is to accompany them in the process of learning to fend for themselves by being your guides.
Next we will discuss in greater depth the role of parents in the virtual education of their children.
Parents’ Role in the Online Middle School Program
In an online middle school program we understand that classes are taught online only, where the teacher is virtual.
As a parent, you or another adult will need to be more available and involved in your child’s daily learning. This is especially true during elementary and early middle school.
For example, depending on the program, you could be responsible for:
Talk on the phone every two weeks or monthly, or meet via video with your child’s teacher or coach. You will need to be prepared with questions, concerns, and solutions to enhance your child’s experience.
Report how well your child is doing by completing the online lesson. You will need to inform the teacher or coach about the challenges your child is having with school work. You will also have to explain why the tasks have not been completed if this is the case.
Be an additional teacher. Many family members involved in online-only education act as additional teachers. That means developing lesson supports and learning strategies to use with your child.
Does an online middle school program work for my child?
When looking for any type of educational option, it is important to consider your child’s strengths and limitations. That applies to both traditional classes and online learning.
Knowing your child’s needs and the ways in which she learns best can guide her in choosing the best option.
An Optimal Online Middle School Program for Your Child
If you are looking for the best online middle school program for your child, QLU Academy offers you the best virtual education you can find. We invite you to learn more about our academic history of the school on our page.
We hope this information has been helpful to you in understanding what an online middle school program is and how it works. Thank you for your reading and for your desire to continue learning. Greetings from the QLU Academy community.
