Virtual Classrooms for public school use

What is a Virtual Classroom?

A virtual classroom is a learning setting in which distance education or distance learning is delivered live over the Internet. Students are not physically "on site" as in traditional classrooms or campus.   Students and instructors participate in remote learning communites using  computers. (Definition from Wikipedia 2010)

             Youtube video on what are virtual classrooms

  Virtual classroom at Chesapeake H.S. 

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJbRa4ONeMM

Technologies used in delivery 

Synchronous and asynchronous are two types of technologies used in distance education. Synchronous technology (real time)  is delivered online and all participants are present at the same time. Web Conferencing is an example of synchronous technology.  Asynchronous technology (self pace) is delivered online and participants access course materials on their own schedule.  Students participate individually on their own at different times and only intereact  with the instructor.  Examples of asynchronous technology are:  Message board forums, e-mail and recorded video.

                               Messageboard                                                                                                   web conferencing

Key features

Key features found in a virtual classroom are instructor support, assessment and communication-participation. The support provided through a virtual classroom uses such tools as search engines and online help guides.  Evaluations consists of online grading books, exams, quizzes and participation. Communication-participation in a virtual classroom uses e-mails, instant messaging, chat rooms and discussion boards.  Homework is submitted electronically.

Comparisons between virtual classrooms and physical classrooms

 Similarities

•    Virtual classrooms and physical classrooms both focus on the student.
•    Similar learning theories, curriculum design and teaching methods.
•    Provide academic lessons, assignments and homework.

 Differences

•     Place, time and class size.
•     Content delivery and communication modes.
•     A major difference with virtual classrooms is they are text based and are not necessarily by   verbal 

 Advantages of virtual classrooms

 Virtual classrooms are flexible and students can attend at their own convenience.  Virtual classrooms are also less expensive and have greater accessibility.  Students can access any class regardless of geographical area.  

Personal views on disadvantages of virtual classrooms

Virtual classrooms seem to have several advantages and features that make them and ideal setting but I have some reservations.  Using the computer for a long period of time to complete a lesson is a strain on the eyes and one can develop carpal tunnel syndrome. Regretfully, the personal interaction is not there with the other students and instructor.  I really appreciate and learn hearing from other student's comments and questions.  I don't see myself as a virtual teacher with my own students who are first graders.  They do need that personal touch, motivation and immediate feedback.  

Links

 Online campus 

http://www.theonlinecampus.net/index.php/academics/virtual-classroom-demo-2

Virtual Classroom for Online Teaching and Learning 

http://www.wiziq.com/Virtual_Classroom.aspx

Salary for virtual classroom teachers

http://www.ehow.com/facts_5951135_average-virtual-public-school-teacher.html

  References

  What  is a virtual classroom.  (Web) Retrieved from http://www.ehow.com/about_5476106_virtual-classroom.html

   lisnetcorp. (2008) Web conferencing.  Retrieved from  www.lisnetcorp.com/web_conf.htmlorld.  

   Appletree Virtual classroom. (2010) World.  Retrieved from www.appletreetraining.com/?page_id=105

    Video 

     Sheperd, C. (Producer). (2007) Virtual classrooms and the role they play. (Web) Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yUdfE19s4wU

      Muratet, J. (Producer). (2008) Virtual classrom. (Web) Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zdxeWRVCIXE