How is the course content delivered on a computer?
Course content is delivered using Learning Management System called Desire2Learn. Click on the link in the menu at the left to log in and see a course demonstration. At the mandatory face-to-face orientation for students and parents, the teacher will explain how the students will login to the course and maneuver through the technology.
In addition to the computer hardware and Internet access that need to be provided at home, are there any other materials or requirements parents need to provide as well?
Students will receive required materials, if applicable, at the mandatory orientation meeting. High-speed Internet connectivity is necessary. Online course content is rich in multimedia that will not operate properly on dial-up connections or many "3G" connections. Using America Online as the Internet provider for this course is not advised.
Why is it not advisable to use America Online for an online course from Virtual Virginia Beach e-Learning?
AOL is an all-in-one Internet service provider. This means it not only provides access to outside Internet browsers but also maintains a self-contained Internet browser-the default browser for any AOL user. Unfortunately, it is this self-contained browser that causes difficulties with accessing events requiring the transmission of large amounts of information/data.
A viable alternative may be to minimize the AOL window and open an external browser such as Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox; however, the initial provider, AOL, may also hinder full access to these browsers. In other words, access difficulties may exist between AOL's self-contained browser and the chosen external browser.
Can I take an online course during summer school if my family has planned a vacation for a week or two during the summer?
Our experience has shown that online students who plan to be away during parts of the online course delivery have difficulty successfully completing the course. Even if the intent is to continue working in the course while away, unexpected technical issues or changing motivation can affect the likelihood of success. Virtual Virginia Beach e-Learning courses are not structured so that the student can “work ahead” before extended absences or “catch up” after returning. All our online courses have weekly deadlines to be met and interactions among coursemates each week. While our teachers are expert at cooperating with families to work around unexpected scheduling issues, they are not required to structure individual course calendars to accommodate vacations and extended student commitments.
Why must the student and a parent attend a face-to-face online course orientation?
At the face-to-face orientation, you will be introduced to the course delivery system, policies and procedures for beginning your course, and meet your teacher. Your teacher will review online course expectations, the instructional syllabus, grading and reporting procedures, teacher contact information and office hours, the Academic Integrity and Student Code of Conduct, and technology support contact information. Parents will also learn how to support their child throughout the online experience.
How can you ensure that the student is really doing the coursework?
The online course requires a high level of interaction between teacher and student. Through this interaction, the teacher becomes familiar with each student's patterns of thinking and expression. Parents can also monitor student progress by logging into the course and examining student work.
How many times will the student meet with the teacher/class during the summer?
Teachers will arrange for optional face-to-face tutorial meetings as needed about every 10 days. In addition, teachers and students will meet online via Microsoft Live Meeting, a webconferencing software. A face-to-face meeting will be established for courses bearing an End-of-Course test, such as the SOL.
Will tutoring be provided?
Parents may choose to hire private tutors to provide extra help sessions for their son/daughter. Students are encouraged to use all provided opportunities to communicate with the online teacher as often as needed.
