Online Learning (OLL)

For years ISD 196 Schools and Teachers have been recognized for consistent quality instruction, learning outcomes and dedication to our students and communities. Online learning is another tool that allows our educators to extend the learning environment and enhance learning opportunities so that all of our students can reach their full potential.

ISD 196 OLL Steering Team Mission Statement

“While learning from our current pilot programs, the OLL Steering Team is charged with developing the guidelines and frameworks to facilitate the evolution of online learning initiatives through the current ISD 196 curriculum process”.

What is Online Learning (OLL) in ISD 196.

OLL is not simply teaching a traditional course using the Intranet; rather, it is using technology to enhance the learning process both within and outside the regular school day. ISD 196 High Schools have been piloting the online course structure and online learning initiatives for the past two years with much success, while also experiencing opportunities of pedagogical development and growth.

Online learning provides a means for students to continue, expand or enhance their education. Online initiatives within the school day are also important tools to enhance the learning process in the traditional classroom (MN Dept. of Ed. 2006).

Through independent research, it has been determined that our district does an exceptional job of meeting the needs of our students using traditional teaching practices (Independent, 2005). At the same time, the ISD 196 OLL Steering team has also determined that there are blended online applications that can enhance these traditional practices. More info & FAQ's...

Independent School District 196. (2005). District 196 again recognized for having qualities parents want most. Retrieved March 15, 2005 from http://www.district196.org/news_releases/042105.cfm

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Characteristics of Successful Online Learning (OLL) Students.

Researchers have found that students who are successful in online courses are the same as those identified in prior studies of students who have attained academic success in traditional courses.  Teachers of online courses are quick to provide similar anecdotal evidence.  Self-motivation, being an independent learner, having a personal commitment to a course, possessing skills such as computer literacy, understanding effective time management, and having solid written communication skills are key factors that determine student success in online learning. Furthermore, there have also been a number of studies that have identified variables that predict online academic success in traditional high schools.  Predictors of academic success include academic self-concept and achievement expectancies, prior GPA, standardized test scores, student motivation, and parental involvement (Leffert & Scales 1998).  Click here for Student OLL Self-Assessment Tools

Leffert, N. & Scales, P.  (1998).  Search Institute.  Developmental Assets, A Synthesis of the Scientific Research on Adolescent Development, MN: Search Institute.

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How can Online Learning Enhance your Current Teaching Practice.

Online learning is a rapidly growing and changing area of education in Minnesota. Models for online learning differ, though most often use is blended traditional classroom time, supplementary and enrichment, computer time and independent or group projects. Students can enroll in an online course, program or engage in online academic support opportunities (Skills Tutor, Drill and Practice, WebQuest)

Online instruction can be use very effectively to DIFFERENCIATE the teachers instruction through remediation, instructional support drill and practice and enrichment. More..Differentiation in the K-12 Classroom - Copyright 2006 The Board of Regents University of Wisconsin System.

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What is "Wired Learning?"

Using Technology to Learn and Learning to Use Technology

"The generation of children in our schools today are often referred to as the "Image-based" or "IGeneration." They are interactive, impatient, informed, inquisitive, and intelligent. Technology, which is an integral part of this generation is psyche, is a revolutionary tool through which teachers can transform education and improve educational opportunities for all children. By providing access to quality education anytime and anywhere while providing tools that facilitate active and engaged learning, technology can empower students to take control of, and accept responsibility for, their learning. The technology itself is less important than the changes it brings about in substance, content, and the focus of the learner. "

The Committee on Education and the Workforce - US House of Representatives September 22, 2000

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Frequently Asked OLL Questions

Q: How do I determine if providing online courses are within the spirit of our districts mission regarding online learning?

A: Contact Randall Peterson or Rob Franchino. They can share with you the findings of our District's Online Learning Steering Team as it related to offering online classes. The District Steering Team has worked closely with our local union and district administration to determine our direction for online learning.

Q: What types of students are usually successful in online classes?

A. Research (MindQuest, 2004) suggest that students who are successful in traditional classes are most often those who will be successful in online course. Click her for a Student Online Readiness Assessment Tools.

Q: Does our district offer online courses wherein students never meet the teacher or come to a traditional class?

A: No, the success of our district's online courses have been designed around a synchronous model wherein classes are taught in a bended format (traditional and online delivery of curriculum).

Q: Why doesn't our district offer online classes wherein the student and teacher never meet?

A: Many districts offer online opportunities when a course may not be offered in the traditional setting. Our district has a strong history of meeting the needs of our students using our traditional teaching methods. However, with thorough planning, we have found that blended online course have worked well for some teachers and students.

Q: Can students from one school take an online course offered from another school within our district.

A: Because all of our courses are of the blended format, (traditional and online delivery of curriculum) we currently do not have students take course from schools other than their own.

Q: Do teachers need to create a different curriculum to teach online?

A: No. Our Online Learning Steering Team has determined that we will use technology (email and the internet) to augment the delivery of our current curriculum.

Q: How do I know if our teachers or students will be good candidates for blended online course?

A: Our OLL Steering team has developed electronic questionnaires to help determine the readiness of both students and teachers. Navigate to the following link to access these resources: Click her for a Teacher Assessment Tool.

Q: How are blended online courses scheduled?

A: Many of our online courses have been scheduled during the first or last periods of the day. This allows for students to work on their coursework at home during the times when the class is not meeting in the traditional setting during the regular school day.

Q: What happens if students wants to take an OLL blended course and does not have access to a computer?

A: Since OLL courses are not required, we provide students two options:

1. Utilize a school computer during the time when the OLL class is not meeting in the traditional setting.
2. Offer the student the opportunity to take the class in the traditional format.

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