Learning Management Systems

Florida Virtual To Extend Use of LMS to Students

• By Dian Schaffhauser
• 01/22/10

The Florida Virtual School is expanding its use of Blackboard technology. The school provides free education to students throughout the state of Florida and delivers education in 43 other states and 39 countries. Previously, it was using Blackboard's course management system for professional development for its teachers. Now the school will be implementing Blackboard Learn for its students as well.

The two organizations will work together to move 100 courses to the Learn platform by the beginning of 2011.

"Online learning gives thousands of students options for a high quality, individualized education," said Julie Young, president and CEO of the school. "Our work with Blackboard will enable us to enhance the way we deliver education and meet the growing demand for more online classes."

Founded in 1997, Florida Virtual School is the first American public school offering online classes state-wide. During 2008 and 2009, it delivered 154,000 half-credit courses to students and said it expects that number to rise significantly as more students look for online opportunities to complement their education.