The considerations for choosing an online school are the same, whether it's for acquiring a high school diploma or a college degree. The only difference is that there are four types of virtual high schools to choose from -- private, public, chartered and university sponsored - and it is possible that geography will be a factor (e.g. charter schools are available only to students living in a certain area). Being familiar with these types can help parents and students in their decision.
Does the school offer or specialize in the program or courses that you are interested in? For example, you may want to study medical transcription in a school that specializes in medical courses. Also, check if you will be getting a diploma or just a certificate for your chosen program.
Is the school properly accredited? This ensures that you will not be wasting money, time and resources on a diploma that you can't use later to pursue a higher education or advance your career. The accreditation should be by recognized by creditors and include oversight as well as a license to operate.
Cost: Similar to traditional learning institutions, the cost for attending an online school can vary, from the very expensive to the practically free charter schools. Aside from tuition, some charge additional fees on training materials, graduation and the like. Learn what your payment options are, and it doesn't hurt to ask about discounts and scholarships, either.
Policy on credit transfer: Some schools allow you to earn credit for real-life work experience or for equivalent courses you have already taken in another institution. With this, you can reduce your course work and reduce the amount of tuition that you have to pay. It also allows you to earn that diploma in less time.
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.
Track record and history: Basically, an online school that has been in operation for more than a couple of years is more stable than one that has been in business for less than that. A large number of students currently enrolled is not necessarily indicative of a good school. You should also try to find out the number of graduates, number of graduates who went on to college (for virtual high schools) and the drop-out rate.
Finally, parents and students can get additional feedback from current and past students and faculty. Other sources include online discussion boards and blogs on online schools. The important thing is to take time and exert effort to get to know several prospective schools before making a decision, instead of settling for the first school that seems to meet all the requirements. - 29940
Does the school offer or specialize in the program or courses that you are interested in? For example, you may want to study medical transcription in a school that specializes in medical courses. Also, check if you will be getting a diploma or just a certificate for your chosen program.
Is the school properly accredited? This ensures that you will not be wasting money, time and resources on a diploma that you can't use later to pursue a higher education or advance your career. The accreditation should be by recognized by creditors and include oversight as well as a license to operate.
Cost: Similar to traditional learning institutions, the cost for attending an online school can vary, from the very expensive to the practically free charter schools. Aside from tuition, some charge additional fees on training materials, graduation and the like. Learn what your payment options are, and it doesn't hurt to ask about discounts and scholarships, either.
Policy on credit transfer: Some schools allow you to earn credit for real-life work experience or for equivalent courses you have already taken in another institution. With this, you can reduce your course work and reduce the amount of tuition that you have to pay. It also allows you to earn that diploma in less time.
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.
Track record and history: Basically, an online school that has been in operation for more than a couple of years is more stable than one that has been in business for less than that. A large number of students currently enrolled is not necessarily indicative of a good school. You should also try to find out the number of graduates, number of graduates who went on to college (for virtual high schools) and the drop-out rate.
Finally, parents and students can get additional feedback from current and past students and faculty. Other sources include online discussion boards and blogs on online schools. The important thing is to take time and exert effort to get to know several prospective schools before making a decision, instead of settling for the first school that seems to meet all the requirements. - 29940
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 suitable education whether in public schools or participating in online school.
