We are Only as Good as Our Technology

After two solid days of troubleshooting a live online training system and channeling a myriad of emails to tech support so issues are resolved, it is abundantly clear virtual teachers are only as "good" as the reliability of the technology. Early messaging is by frantic teachers who want to meet student needs, and as the delay wears on and systems come back on line, parents and students email to find out when the missed sessions will be made up. Feels good when things smooth out and all is calm once again on the LMS (Learning Management System) horizon.

Online teachers work hard every year to focus on engaging synchronous sessions. Teachers provide amazing lessons using Smart Board and touch screens and not only are these educational, they are standards-based, data-driven, and often, game-based. Teachers and parents are aware of what the children need at all times. To stay abreast of data is key and gradually, even teachers who are not as comfortable with data analysis have come on board and realize it is their friend when used properly. Wonderful to witness the sweeping changes made in platforms so everything is easily available and timely.