1.2 Kindergarten Pros and Cons of Online Instruction

Flexible schedule.
Adjustable pacing.
Convenience and freedom to access course at any time and from anywhere.
Use internet skills.
The comfort of working at home with parents’ assistance and support.
Can review materials and course work with parents.
Parents have the opportunity to be actively involved in their student’s education.
Parents serve as the learning “coach” and will be able to oversee instruction.
Available individualization offered may be a valuable asset.
Non-threatening atmosphere; reduces stress; less anxiety or worry.
Can learn to be more focused, self-motivated, independent, and/or disciplined.

Lack of face-to-face and personal contact with instructor.
Requires access to computer and Internet.
Technical Problems (including computer, server, network, power).
Requires a tremendous amount of self-discipline, self-motivation, time-management and organization skills to be successful.
Technical/computer literacy and keyboarding /typing skills are required.
Communication, directions, or discussions may be unclear or more difficult.
There may be a lack of immediate assistance from an online teacher.
Distractions and interruptions; hard to focus on work.
May become overwhelmed or confused.
Limits certain kinds of class instruction (modeling, demonstrations, spontaneous interactions).
Physical problems: stiff neck, headache, lack of movement.
The degree of socialization is far less than what is found in traditional schools.
Parents must have the time to devote to the virtual school experience; they will have an extensive role as the learning “coach.”