September 2005 — Features
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Building a Virtual High School...click by click
The majority of Rapid City Academy Online courses have been developed and taught by the same individuals; however, in some cases, new teaching staffwere assigned courses developed by other staff members. The course platform requires continuity to assure that a student can move smoothly from one course to another, and instructors need the ability to easily adapt or modify course content to better individualize the learning. Just as importantly, teachers noted that more training, particularly regarding pedagogy in this new learning environment, is a necessity. They also suggested that to better understand the online environment, one should first participate as an online learner. Currently,50 percent of the instructors have completed or are in the process of earning advanced degrees through online programs offered by various US universities. As a result, they believe this gives them insight into online learning and the problems their students may encounter in the virtual education environment.
Conclusions
There’s no doubt that online education is showing tremendous growth. During the 2004-2005 school year, some form of online learning was offered in 41 percent of K-12 schools (Corey Murray, “Study Reveals trends in Ed-Tech Spending,” eSchool News, 2004). Because of this increase in the demand for online learning and its possible impact on geographically remote areas, Rapid City Academy Online is now looking to the state to provide direction in policy, funding, and oversight responsibilities concerning course content and teacher qualifications to ensure meeting the expectations of No Child Left Behind mandates. Critical issues that must be addressed include intellectual property rights, academic freedom, equitable compensation, and ongoing program evaluation.
Sue Podoll is a special-education teacher in charge of the Rapid City Area Schools’ (SD) long-term suspension room. In addition to her teaching duties, Podoll is co-president of the Rapid City Education Association and an instructor for Rapid City Academy Online, handling student orientation. Darcy Randle is an English and psychology teacher for Rapid City Area Schools. She is the English Department Chair for Rapid City Academy, as well as an instructor and a course developer for Rapid City Academy Online.
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