expanding the curriculum through virtual learning @ bunkie high school

Expanding The Curriculum

Through Virtual Learning

@ Bunkie High SchoolLuke Welch

LVS FacilitatorHigh School Redesign Summit

April 25, 2008

WHY BUNKIE HIGH SCHOOL

GOT INVOLVED WITH VIRTUAL LEARNING

The Louisiana Virtual School (LVS)

Availability of an expanded curriculumAllowed students the opportunity to enroll in

courses not offered at BHS, such as, Physics, Spanish, and Advanced Placement Courses

A resolution for student scheduling conflictsNo cost to school or student (books and

supplies provided by LVS)

THE INITIAL PROCESS…

A LOUISIANA VIRTUAL SCHOOL SITE

Initial Tasks

Secured lab setting with computers at BHSAttended LVS Training in late SpringRegistered students onlineMet with LVS students prior to the opening

day of school to explain the Virtual School concept

… AND THE PROCESS

CONTINUES

LVS @ BHS

Spring Tasks

Work with counselor to screen potential students

Students complete “Is Online Learning for Me” questionnaire provided by LVS

Work with individual students in selecting a course(s)

Assign Student email accountsRegister students online (Seniors first)

Summer Tasks

Attend summer training provided by LVSLoad required software based on scheduled

courses

First Day of SchoolReview the LVS processes and procedures

with studentsHand out and discuss the “Academic Honesty

& Acceptable Use Policy”Demonstrate the proper use of Avoyelles

Parish School Board email accountsDemonstrate how to access student courses

through LVS (Blackboard)Students placed in assigned seats by courses

Day-To-Day Tasks

Students read email then login to LVSQuestions / Problems DiscussionStudents check assignments and begin

workingStudents are monitored by facilitator (walk-

throughs and SynchronEyes)Students logout of email and LVS

AssessmentStudents gain access to proctored

assessments only by facilitator entered passwords

Assessments are scored by the Virtual School Teacher

Students access grades through BlackboardProgress Reports are posted every three

weeks Recommended grades are posted by semester

LAGNIAPPE

The BHS LVS Computer Lab27 WinXP computers in two adjoining roomsDedicated Fiber Optic Cable from serverAll monitors visible from one central locationSynchronEyes monitoring software Networked PrinterWireless laptop access availableHeadphones w/mic available for student useSmartboard for demonstrations

Schedules

The LVS Lab is available seven periods a day to accommodate flexibility in student schedules

THE REST OF THE STORY…

What Else is Good…

Peer-to-Peer communicationExcellent for Homebound StudentsCommunication between BHS & LVSTeachers are accessible (email & phone)Teachers are flexible with deadlines

What’s Not So Good…

Teachers are not face-to-faceScreening process is not 100% accurateStudents wanting to “play” on the computerDays after a storm! NO INERNET!

QUESTIONS???

Contact Information

Luke L. WelchBunkie High Schoollwelch@avoyellespsb.com318-346-6216 x5078