Virtual Learning

Virtual learning can be advantageous, depending on the type of learner taking advantage of the service. Many of these programs require that the student has intrinsict motivation to access the course, stay organized, and stay current with the content. Not every student has acquired the appropriate skills to manage this. However, there are occasions where the local school just does not work for the student and the virtual setting is the best option to obtain an educaiton.  There are a variety of reasons where a students would benefit from the flexibility of virtual education and be able to gain knowledge without the barriers in the traditioinal educational setting (Layton and Brown, 2011). 

Virtual learning experiences, do not have to be through a specific schools like VLACS or VHS, it could be your own personal interest that is satisfied through the flexibility of virtual learning. For example, if you have an interest in learning about dinosaurs, then this tour might be enough to fill your needs. Or, if you are curious about the universe and the size of things that make up the universe, the information provided in this virtual lesson may also be satisfying. But, how does the individual find these resources? It takes a lot of work and luck to find these tools on your own, often times a real person can help point you in the right direction. This is where having an actual person to interact with becomes important. Ideally, the mentor is a kind individual who has the knowledge and passion to provide the appropriate tools, and open the right doors for the student to be able to explore the unknown, individually.

In the end, virtual learning can be advantageous, depending on the type of student, and the circumstances for learning. Some virtual learning programs may provide the rigid linear content that is desired, or provide a more flexible, open learning environment for the student to explore on their own. In either scenario, virtual learning is an important way to continue learning and growing as a person, for "learning is a treasure and will follow us everywhere." (学习-是永远跟随主人的宝物 - Chinese Proverb)


Layton, L., & Brown, E. (2011). Virtual schools are multiplying, but some question their educational value. The Washington Post. Retrieved from http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/education/virtual-schools-are-multiplying-but-some-question-their-educational-value/2011/11/22/gIQANUzkzN_story.html 2013.