Although location is not a usual consideration for choosing an online school, this can be a factor with virtual high schools, which can be private, public, chartered or university-sponsored. Some types are not available for residents in some areas. That said, the criteria for choosing an online school is basically the same for all:
That aside, the first thing to assess is whether the school offers or specializes in the program that the student wants to pursue. For instance, it might be better to get a nursing degree from a school that specializes in medical fields. Also consider that some schools offer only certificates, not diplomas.
The program offerings meet the requirements, but are the schools properly accredited? The accreditation should include oversight by recognized creditors and not just a license to operate. This ensures that parents and students will not spend money, time and resources on a diploma mill or an illegitimate operation.
Having found an online school with the right programs and proper accreditation, it is time to look at the price. Aside from tuition, are there hidden costs; technology fees, graduation fees, etc? It is also a good idea to ask if there are discounts, scholarships or financial assistance options available.
Studying the curriculum and learning about the school's credit transfer policies can reduce costs and the time it takes to earn a diploma. Some schools allow students to skip courses already taken in another institution. Others offer credit for real-life work experience.
Classes: Ask how classes are conducted or, better, attend demo classes, if any are available. Try to assess the learning format, qualifications of online teaching staff, technical and academic support offered to students and the teacher-to-student ratio. You can then decide if the online school fits your learning style and schedule.
Next, examine the school's track record. The longer the school has been in business, the better. Aside from the number of students currently enrolled or the number of graduates, parents and students should also try to find out the quality of graduates the school has produced. For instance, how many students from the virtual high school went on to college? What is the drop-out rate?
Reputation: Feedback from people who have actual experience with the school is also important input. This includes people you know, students and faculty (past or present) and information gathered from online discussion boards and blogs. Taking the time to consider these will help you decide on an online school.
That aside, the first thing to assess is whether the school offers or specializes in the program that the student wants to pursue. For instance, it might be better to get a nursing degree from a school that specializes in medical fields. Also consider that some schools offer only certificates, not diplomas.
The program offerings meet the requirements, but are the schools properly accredited? The accreditation should include oversight by recognized creditors and not just a license to operate. This ensures that parents and students will not spend money, time and resources on a diploma mill or an illegitimate operation.
Having found an online school with the right programs and proper accreditation, it is time to look at the price. Aside from tuition, are there hidden costs; technology fees, graduation fees, etc? It is also a good idea to ask if there are discounts, scholarships or financial assistance options available.
Studying the curriculum and learning about the school's credit transfer policies can reduce costs and the time it takes to earn a diploma. Some schools allow students to skip courses already taken in another institution. Others offer credit for real-life work experience.
Classes: Ask how classes are conducted or, better, attend demo classes, if any are available. Try to assess the learning format, qualifications of online teaching staff, technical and academic support offered to students and the teacher-to-student ratio. You can then decide if the online school fits your learning style and schedule.
Next, examine the school's track record. The longer the school has been in business, the better. Aside from the number of students currently enrolled or the number of graduates, parents and students should also try to find out the quality of graduates the school has produced. For instance, how many students from the virtual high school went on to college? What is the drop-out rate?
Reputation: Feedback from people who have actual experience with the school is also important input. This includes people you know, students and faculty (past or present) and information gathered from online discussion boards and blogs. Taking the time to consider these will help you decide on an online school.
About the Author:
Jim has explored the options that students have to take part in online high school and helps parents to find information. It is important that kids obtain a proper education whether in public schools or participating in online school.
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