A Human-Centered Vision for Quality Virtual Learning
There has never been a more crucial time to address and explore the role virtual learning can play in education as schools grapple with many challenges while simultaneously preparing students for a changing and unpredictable future.
In this paper, you will find a vision of quality virtual learning - based on research and input from dozens of experts and practitioners - that focuses on learning and the people vital to it as the keys to success. The result is a framework that should drive the creation and implementation of any virtual learning program.
Evo Popoff
Senior Vice President at Whiteboard Advisors
Named State Policy Maker of the Year
Liz Cohen
Senior Director at Whiteboard Advisors
Member of the Inaugural Harvard Center for Education Policy Research Strategic Data Project
About the Authors
Key Themes Uncovered
"If we know one thing about the future of K-12 education - whether virtual or in-person - it’s that people are at the heart of it."
"[Virtual learning] programs can transcend the limitations of the four walls of the classroom or of local communities, which is particularly important in providing opportunities for students regardless of where they might live.”
Key Highlights
Putting It All Together
What does this all mean for district leaders who are developing a virtual program or school?
Asking the right questions is a great start in ensuring you're building a holistic program that involves all stakeholders.
You can use our suggestions featured on the right, and for even deeper insight, you can download the whitepaper.
- It’s about people, not technology
If all students are to thrive, learning experiences must be designed with relationships at the center - far from the isolated vision many people have of virtual learning. - Good instruction is good instruction, whatever the modality
Good instruction and good teachers are the foundation of quality virtual learning. However, virtual learning is different and intentional efforts to develop educator skills are key to virtual learning success. - Build a culture focused on the success of all students
Taking a conscious approach to building culture requires leadership and accountability, with data at the heart of evaluating student and program success.
Phyllis Lockett, CEO of LEAP Innovations
Phyllis Lockett, CEO of LEAP Innovations
There is a New Baseline of Demand
64% of high school parents expect [virtual] learning options (48% of elementary parents feel the same).
(2021 Education Next poll)
88% of teachers said their ability to use education technology improved.
(Education Week)
73% of districts plan to maintain or increase their virtual learning provider relationship post-pandemic.
(Tyton Partners analysis)
Parents & Families
Teachers
Districts & Schools
"We focused a lot on engagement and about being even more intentional about everything than you would be in a physical classroom... At the end of it all, it just gets back to good teaching. You have to plan; you can’t just wing it."
Zach Blattner, Senior Director of Teacher Professional Education at Relay Graduate School of Education
"As districts introduce and expand virtual learning programs, they will also need to adapt their systems and practices to build a culture focused on success for every student. This means not only thinking about what those systems are and how they work together, but also applying an equity lens to the culture and practices surrounding virtual learning district-wide."
It's about people,
not technology
Good instruction is
good instruction,
whatever the modality
Build a culture focused on the success of
all students
What does this all mean for district leaders who are developing a virtual program or school?
Asking the right questions is a great start in ensuring you're building a holistic program that involves all stakeholders.
You can use our suggestions featured below, and for even deeper insight, you can download the whitepaper.