The Mackinac Center for Public Policy
Virtual Learning in Michigan’s Schools
By Michael Van Beek
©2011 by the Mackinac Center for Public Policy Midland, Michigan
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Virtual Learning in Michigan’s Schools
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Introduction: What Is “Virtual Learning”?
Personal computers and the Internet have revolutionized entire sectors of American society. Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Skype and other online communications media have allowed billions of people around the world to share ideas in a matter of seconds, mostly at a very low cost. These advances in computer technology are as remarkable as they are familiar. But most people are not aware of how computers and Internet technology are transforming the way students learn. This emerging education paradigm is often called “virtual learning,”* and it has the potential to improve student achievement, educational access and schools’ cost-effectiveness. Specifically, virtual learning uses computer software, the Internet or both to deliver instruction to students. This minimizes or eliminates the need for teachers and students to share a classroom. Virtual learning does not include the increasing use of e-mail or online forums to help teachers better communicate with students...