After watching this video, I am surprised to see that they are using open source applications in high school. I think there are some positive and negative aspects to using this, especially with high school students. It’s good that they have more flexibility with their assignments and that they become familiarized with the technology, but sometimes they need to have social interactions with the other students and teacher. How would they do activities like class presentations or speeches? The interactions online are good, but it’s just not the same as being able to talk to some face to face. One thing that I did like about it was that it gives students the opportunity to receive more individualized instruction. We all know that one classroom can have students who function on a variety of different academic levels. The open source high school gives students the chance to work at their own pace without feeling pressure to keep up with the other students. Another thing that comes to mind is that students don’t have to miss school for bad weather, or deal with any of the other distractions that come along with being in an actual school setting because everything is done online. This is definitely the new age of technology and education, and I can see other schools taking this route in the future.
I was surprised at the idea of having an online high school as well. From my interactions with students at the high school and collegiate level, I wonder if the high school age students are responsible enough to handle this type of flexibility. I am sure that this type of learning will keep those students who enjoy technology engaged. But what about those students who need structure. All students need a good balance, we must not forget how important social interactions are. Communicating with people via chat and videoconferencing is different that communicating face-to-face.
ReplyDeleteGood points you raise about some additional benefits of open source schooling, particularly as it related to no missed school for bad weather. I agree that open source high school allows students to pace themselves without having to feel the pressure to keep up with peers.
ReplyDeleteThe socialization concern is a trend in several blogs as a potential drawback to open source schools. Individuals will miss opportunities to communicate face to face. I think these type of skills may be able to be developed outside of school, with some of the additional opportunities that students may have. I think the example that one parent used that her children will be able to travel abroad is an example of how the open source system will support socialization and face-to-face interaction.
I agree that socialization is one of the primary concerns most people have about the possibility of Open Source schools. I am also inclined to agree with Rose in that there are perhaps alternatives to the socialization issue. Just the thought that some professional schools are considering this method scares me. I don't think I would appreciate a surgeon operating on me if he's completed all course work online. Now, I know this might seem far-fetched, but this is a possibility for medical students.
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