Online education in schools

Abstract

Online education with Internet technology has been used extensively in post‐secondary education, but it is relatively new in schools. It has considerable potential for enhancing teaching/learning in both traditional schools and home‐schooling. Describes research conducted in Alberta where online education in schools is more common than in any other Canadian province. Semi‐structured interviews were held with 13 teachers from four online schools. Although they reported increased workloads and stress associated with added responsibilities for authoring online courses, providing technological support, and enhancing their technological skills, the teachers perceived many benefits of online education. However, improvements in the scope and reliability of technology and better access to digital educational content are required to realize the full potential of online education in schools. The information presented has relevance to school systems in many countries. It also relates to the rapidly evolving role of technology in education for all ages.

Citation

Muirhead, W.D. (2000), "Online education in schools", International Journal of Educational Management, Vol. 14 No. 7, pp. 315-324. https://doi.org/10.1108/09513540010378969