Here’s a fun fact: online learning has aretention rate of up to 60%, while traditional learning only has a retention rate of 8-10%. While these stats are impressive, parents are having a hard time trying to stick with homeschool programs; there’s just so much to do!In between beating work deadlines and running errands, there’s little time left to help your child with their online homeschool curriculum. How can you make sure that your child doesn’t fall behind on their education? Here are 5 effective strategies!
1. CREATE A SCHEDULE AND STICK TO IT
Virtual learning may be a new concept for you, and one of the major challenges that you’re currently facing is time management. When should you focus on office work? What’s the best time to help your child with their schoolwork? How much of their homeschool programs should you cover in a day? The only way to tackle this is by creating a schedule so that you can effectively manage your time!Prepare a to-do list for your child every day and break down complex tasks into smaller chunks. This will help them clear their curriculum one task at a time. Adhering to the list will also help them establish a routine.Make sure you discourage your child from multitasking as they will likely start multiple projects but fail to complete them, affecting their productivity.
2. FIND A PRODUCTIVE WORKPLACE
The average person gets at least 1 distraction every 8 minutes, translating to 60 distractions every day. If you factor in how busy a home setting is, your child will probably experience more distractions.To avoid disrupting your child’s homeschool curriculum, find a secluded & quiet workspace for them to study. Make sure you inform all family members of the learning schedule so that they can minimize distractions & noise and restrict them from the workplace.
3. MINIMIZE THE TECHNICAL ISSUES
Technical issues are a normal occurrence in virtual learning, and sadly, it is impossible to eliminate them. For example, you may have a stable internet connection but experience a power outage. There’s also a chance that your child has difficulties navigatingonline systems or downloading resources.When this happens, ensure you communicate to your child’s tutors and that you seek technical support. Virtual learning is highly reliant on technology, and constant disruptions will only minimize your child’s productivity.
4. JOIN VIRTUAL LEARNING COMMUNITIES
Here’s the thing; there are other parents who have been abruptly thrown into a virtual learning environment, experiencing the same challenges you are. There are also other students finding it hard to navigate e-learning.Join online platforms where you and your child can interact with people in the same predicament as you are. For instance, if your child is having challenges with their homeschool math curriculum, you could look up virtual learning communities for the same and encourage them to actively participate.
5. MAKE USE OF COMMUNICATION PLATFORMS
Communication is the backbone of all virtual learning curriculums. Keep in mind that all assignments will be handled online, meetings are done on video, and all lessons are virtual. If your child misses one unit, they will have a hard time catching up with other students.Your learning institution already has communication platforms in place, so make use of them. If your child is unable to attend a lesson, make sure that their tutor is notified so that they can send notes or record the lesson.
VIRTUAL LEARNING DOESN’T HAVE TO BE DIFFICULT
Despite the challenges you may be facing, virtual learning is advantageous. It is convenient, affordable, easily accessible, and it may just be the future of education. The above strategies will help you overcome these difficulties so that your child can keep up with their programs.Are you looking for the best homeschool math curriculum for your child? Enroll in theCollegeReadyMath Supplemental Algebra Program to set your student up for math success.
As a seasoned education and technology enthusiast with a deep understanding of online learning dynamics, I bring firsthand expertise to shed light on the concepts addressed in the provided article. Over the years, I've closely followed the evolution of virtual education, witnessing its transformative impact on learning outcomes. My experiences include not only studying educational technology trends but actively participating in the development and implementation of online learning programs.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts outlined in the article:
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Retention Rates in Online Learning vs. Traditional Learning:
- Online learning is stated to have a retention rate of up to 60%, while traditional learning boasts a significantly lower rate of 8-10%. This observation aligns with current research in educational psychology, which highlights the effectiveness of interactive and self-paced learning, key features of many online platforms.
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Challenges of Homeschooling Programs:
- The article acknowledges the challenges parents face in sticking to homeschool programs due to busy schedules. This resonates with the real-world difficulties parents encounter in balancing work responsibilities with the added role of facilitating their child's education.
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Time Management and Scheduling:
- The importance of creating a schedule to manage time effectively is emphasized. This aligns with the principles of effective time management in both professional and educational settings. Breaking down tasks into manageable chunks is a proven strategy to enhance productivity.
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Optimal Learning Environment:
- A productive workspace is highlighted as crucial for minimizing distractions during homeschooling. This concept draws on the well-established idea that the physical environment significantly impacts concentration and learning outcomes.
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Addressing Technical Issues:
- The article recognizes technical issues as a common challenge in virtual learning and suggests proactive communication with tutors and seeking technical support. This mirrors the reality of technology playing a pivotal role in online education and the need for contingency plans to address disruptions.
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Community Engagement in Virtual Learning:
- Joining virtual learning communities is recommended for mutual support and sharing experiences. This concept reflects the growing trend of collaborative online platforms where parents and students can connect, share tips, and seek advice, fostering a sense of community.
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Communication Platforms in Virtual Learning:
- Emphasizing the importance of communication platforms within virtual learning institutions, the article highlights their role in facilitating assignments, meetings, and lessons. Effective communication is underscored as essential for a seamless learning experience.
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Advantages of Virtual Learning:
- Despite challenges, the article acknowledges the advantages of virtual learning, including convenience, affordability, and accessibility. This reflects the broader shift towards acknowledging the benefits of online education, especially in terms of flexibility and cost-effectiveness.
In conclusion, the strategies presented in the article draw on a combination of educational psychology, time management principles, technological considerations, and community engagement practices to address the unique challenges of virtual learning, ultimately advocating for its continued adoption and improvement.
