Understanding Online Learning

This article highlights similarities and differences between traditional and online learning and defines terms related to online learning environments.

In the past ten years, online K-12 education programs have become much more popular. Schools around the world have embraced diverse learning modalities - in-person classes, a mix of in-person and online learning, or fully online classes - to ensure students are receiving an effective education and the support they need to succeed. Online learning has proven to be a good way to solve important problems in education.

Similarities and Differences Between Traditional and Online Learning

Traditional Learning	Online Learning
- Directly interact with teacher and peers	- May or may not directly interact with teacher or peers
- Pace is dictated by the teacher	- Pace can be influenced by the student
- Limited number of course offerings	- Greater course offerings
- Schedule is set by the school/district	- Schedule can be set by the student/family
- Set physical location	- Flexibility of location

Online Learning Terminology

The following definitions provide insight and clarification to digital teaching and learning.

Asynchronous Environment – Students learn independently. Curriculum and instruction are self-guided, and students work at their own pace. Asynchronous instruction requires a sense of independence and strong self-motivation in the student.
Synchronous Environment – Students learn in real-time virtually or in a classroom setting. Synchronous learning environments most often include a teacher.
Distance Learning – A type of learning wherein students and teachers are not present in the same physical location, such as a classroom. This is also referred to as “distance education” and “remote learning.” Distance learning can be implemented via synchronous, blended, or asynchronous environments.
Virtual Learning – Often consists of a teacher presenting face-to-face through streaming video in an online classroom environment. Virtual learning typically takes place on a web-based platform through the Internet and can be completed independently or in real-time in the classroom or remotely.
Online Learning – Online learning refers to any form of education a student receives via the Internet. Learning happens in a web-based platform, and is done independently or in real-time, in a classroom or remotely.
Brick-and-Mortar – A traditional learning environment where students learn in a physical school setting.
Homeschooling – Homeschooling is separate from distance and virtual learning, as well as the brick-and-mortar classroom. A parent or guardian chooses and implements curriculum and instruction rather than a teacher within a school.
Digital Curriculum – An extensive and adaptable collection of educational materials designed to meet learning standards and expectations. These digital materials encompass various formats, such as text, videos, images, audio, and interactive media. Educators can leverage these resources to tailor and personalize the learning experience for individual students. Also, these digital assets are accessible to students beyond the classroom and regular school hours.
Blended Learning – An educational approach that combines traditional in-person classroom instruction with online and digital learning methods. Blended learning is designed to provide a flexible and personalized learning experience, leveraging the strengths of both in-person and digital instruction to enhance engagement and cater to individual learning styles. This approach aims to optimize the benefits of technology while maintaining the essential aspects of traditional classroom learning.
Blended Environment – Includes a combination of synchronous, in-person instruction in a traditional classroom setting; synchronous, virtual instruction; and/or asynchronous, self-paced instruction. This is also referred to as “hybrid environments.” Blended learning is often implemented by allowing students to attend class several days each week and work online the remaining days.
Learning Management System (LMS) - Software, typically web-based, that can manage a variety of tools, such as instruction, assessment, training, reporting, and tracking. Common learning management systems are Buzz, Canvas, and Schoology.
Student Management System (SMS) - Software, typically web-based, wherein school administrators, educators, facilitators, and businesses can enter, update, store, and manage student data. This can also be known as a Student Information System (SIS).

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