Virtual Learner Profile

Research indicates that virtual learning is not for everyone.  Specific learner traits of successful virtual students include: 

Self-motivated

• Students can direct their own learning environment and methods to fulfill course requirements and achieve individual academic success. Good online students can develop techniques to stay involved and interested in their online course. This is important because if a student does not maintain adequate progress in their online courses, they may be required to return in-person learning.  

Independent Learner

• The online environment enables students to learn at their own pace; however, that does not mean that virtual learning is an easier solution to traditional learning.  You will have the same amount of work as you do in a traditional course, but you have the option to learn remotely and flex your work time across 24 hours, 7 days a week. Virtual learning requires less dependence on the structural support and accountability provided by in-person teachers, principals, counselors, and social workers.   For this reason, it is critical for virtual students to have a strong support system at home.     

Computer Literate

• Although it is not necessary to have advanced computer skills, students should possess a working knowledge of electronic e-mail, virtual meeting platforms (Zoom/Meet), the Internet, as well as basic keyboarding skills. Successful online learners need consistent and easy access to computers and the Internet. Students may use a VCS-issued device from the 1:1 program or their own personal device so long as it meets the minimum hardware and software requirements for the program.  Additionally, VCS maintains an inventory of WiFi hotspots for students/families who have a demonstrated hardship and are unable to access the internet and school resources from home.   

Good Time Management

• Students must be able to organize and plan their own best “time to learn.” There is no one best time for everyone, but the key to learning is to make the time to learn.  

Effective Communicator

• Students must use electronic e-mail, virtual meetings, and discussion forums to communicate with their instructors and VCS support staff. The ability to write clearly to communicate ideas and assignments is essential. This method provides the learner with rapid feedback as well as a means to inform instructors of any concerns or problems that they may be experiencing. In addition, a good online student will immediately ask for help when there is a problem.

Personal Commitment

• Because there are no bells that begin and end classes, students must have a strong desire to learn and achieve knowledge and skills via online courses. Making a commitment to learn in this manner is a very personal decision and requires a strong commitment to perform in order to achieve academic success. Remember that a VALE Virtual Academy course is much like a traditional course at school. You will receive a grade at the end of the course that will go on your transcript.

Academic Readiness

• The student should have the basic reading, writing, math and computer literacy skills to succeed in the class.  Additionally, the student should have demonstrated academic success in that they either have documented success as a remote learning student and/or that they have maintained an academic record of mostly As and Bs as a traditional learner.  

Technologically Prepared

• A successful online learner knows how to open, create and/or save a document; use various technology tools (e.g., dictionary, thesaurus, grammar checker, calculator); and identify various file formats (e.g., docs, sheets, pdf, jpg).