Just as students in a traditional bricks-and-mortar school do, online school students have many opportunities to interact, share ideas, and develop friendships with classmates. Even though online school does not take place in a physical classroom, students are often encouraged to collaborate and communicate through engaging virtual platforms—and even some in-person events.
Online school can be a great way for your student to connect with peers from all over the state! If you would like to learn more about virtual learning, take a look at some of the ways that online students regularly work together.
Real-time online classrooms
Many online teachers use real-time online classrooms for interactive lessons and projects. At Connections Academy® online public schools, they are known as LiveLesson® sessions. During the session, students can have group discussions through chat pods, ask questions, hear—and sometimes even see—the teacher and other students through a webcam, and view presentations. Not only is it educational and informative, but it is also a fun way for students to get to know each other!
Online clubs and activities
A high-quality virtual school will usually offer a wide range of online clubs and activities such as a book club, music club, and sports club. By participating, students get the chance to interact with peers who have the same interests and hobbies. These clubs often help students form a community, and also help to strengthen their leadership and collaborative skills.
Specialized online programs
Aside from online clubs and activities, Connections Academy offers specialized academic programs for advanced students, or for students who have a specific talent. Middle and high school students have the option of applying to one of the Talent Networks, including the Sports Talent Network, Visual and Performing Arts Network, and Science and Technology Network. In these programs, students can further develop their talents in a relatable and coactive setting.
In-person field trips
Sometimes online schools organize local field trips throughout the year so students and teachers can see each other face-to-face. They are an enjoyable and exciting way for students to experience an academic adventure while interacting with their teachers and making new friends. The trips can really bring the virtual learning world to life—and it might lead to other social gatherings and activities outside of school!
Watch the video below to see how current students in Colorado Connections Academy collaborated to create a mock weather report through a real-time classroom! One of the students even got to meet a longtime idol—Mike Nelson, the chief meteorologist for 7NEWS in Denver, Colorado.
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Online school students can develop meaningful connections and friendships with classmates by taking advantage of the many stimulating multimedia tools and activities available to them. What are some ways your student collaborates with classmates in virtual school? Share with us in the comments!
About the Author
Stephanie Osorno
Stephanie Osorno holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Stevenson University, and a master’s degree in professional writing from Towson University. As the media intern for the English department at Stevenson University, Stephanie blogged about education-related topics on a weekly basis. During graduate school, she worked at Roland Park Elementary/Middle School, where she helped a group of students develop their creativity and writing skills by overseeing the production of the school’s first magazine publication, The Rambler.
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