Virtual Schooling in the 21st Century

Before getting into the Online Teacher Certification Program I realized that some level of online teaching existed, I just wasn't aware of the extent.  Recently, I have been seeking and applying for online positions to either tutor or teach.  What I have learned from the various job postings are the following:
1.  There is an elevated need for an online teacher to be ready to teach ESL students.
2.  Institutions would like for the instructor to have had some previous experience.
3.  In order to teach online, one has to have the proper equipment and internet speed.
4.  An online webpage or portfolio, so to speak, should be available for future employment.
5.  As already mentioned, virtual schooling is called many things besides virtual schooling.


In the instances that I received a reply back, most employers assumed that I had the following:
1.  An online lesson that could be taught as part of the interview process.
2.  Good communication skills.
3.  The technology necessary to teach online.


I have learned that virtual schooling is very popular and is being facilitated at all levels, from elementary through graduate school.  Additionally, I know that good communication is key because the instructor must be able to communicate the objectives online to each type of student.  The instructor must also be able to differentiate the instruction so that all types of learners will be able to be engaged in learning.  So, in order to accomplish that, an online class could consist of discussion questions, requiring online students to do research and write about it, online quizzes, and group projects.  The strongest disadvantage of virtual schooling is not to make the students feel like they are alone and alienated. 


The virtual teacher must be prepared to communicate regularly with students.  There are various ways this can be accomplished (e.g., email, google hangout).  Also when the class is asynchronous, the teacher should be prepared to provide timely feedback so that students feel that they are not alone.
So virtual schooling is here to stay. As more and more students learn of the convenience of enrolling in such classes, the idea of this way of learning will certainly increase.