This site is designed to provide information and facilitate discussion of the issue of online learning k12.  As a teacher in New York who uses online learning and has created a bit of a “hybrid” class, I am in favor of using these tools to facilitate learning.  In my view, however, there are many issues and risks if we do not do this correctly.  We need thoughtful discussion and information.  We as teachers also need to be part of the process and discussion!

I ask that you give the issue some thought, become educated on the issue and express your views here and to the policy makers who are making these decisions locally and otherwise.  On this site, I expect the dialogue to be open while professional and meaningful.

As I am also an attorney. I plan to do what I can here to provide information and facilitate this dialogue.  I think I can be helpful as I am in the classroom, use online learning daily, but also am aware of the legal as well as professional concerns.

I believe in HYBRID learning and teaching.  I have posted a little video I made last summer which supports my basic view.  (I apologize for the typo in the video– I cannot recreate the video but think it is still worthwhile…).  Hopefully you will get the idea.  :)

We can really mess things up if we are not careful on this issue!  Let’s start the conversation, shall we?

My next post will highlight what is new at NYSED onthis issue and some of the risks I see.  Please post your comments and thoughts!

Let us begin tackling this important issue!

Sue Palmer