Disadvantages
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There are several disadvantages to virtual schools that have left parents uneasy. They include:
Technical Challenges
Online learners are sometimes hindered by the use of technology. They are susceptible to to technical failures such as the constraints of email and glitches in computer programs. When students encounter these types of problems it can be frustrating and deter from their learning. Also, not all students have accessibility to technology (Cifuentes, 2001).
Safety
Virtual learners are often exposed to the flaws of the Internet. They are subject to inappropriate websites and ads, online predators, and hackers. Their privacy is at risk as well. Also, unlike brick and mortar schools, students are not under the constant supervision of a teacher (Bell, 2001).
Lack of Interaction
Online learners miss out on face-to-face interaction. This inhibits their communication skills because they do not get to communicate with fellow students and faculty on a daily basis. They also miss out on personal instruction from teachers as well as classroom discussion (Illinois Online Network, 2010).
Lack of Motivation
Online learners must exhibit self-discipline in order to be successful. Students who have trouble with procrastination and time management will have difficulties completing their work and avoiding distractions. Virtual schools also lack the structure found in traditional schools (Illinois Online Network, 2010).
Unpreparedness
Students enrolled in virtual schools are unprepared to meet the challenges of collegiate life. They often lack the social and academic skills to succeed at the next level. Many have trouble adapting to the normalcy and structure of brick and mortar schools. They also have difficulties adapting to paper and pencil tests and assignments (Illinois Online Network, 2010).
http://www.thetowntalk.com/article/20121202/NEWS/121202011
Technical Challenges
Online learners are sometimes hindered by the use of technology. They are susceptible to to technical failures such as the constraints of email and glitches in computer programs. When students encounter these types of problems it can be frustrating and deter from their learning. Also, not all students have accessibility to technology (Cifuentes, 2001).
Safety
Virtual learners are often exposed to the flaws of the Internet. They are subject to inappropriate websites and ads, online predators, and hackers. Their privacy is at risk as well. Also, unlike brick and mortar schools, students are not under the constant supervision of a teacher (Bell, 2001).
Lack of Interaction
Online learners miss out on face-to-face interaction. This inhibits their communication skills because they do not get to communicate with fellow students and faculty on a daily basis. They also miss out on personal instruction from teachers as well as classroom discussion (Illinois Online Network, 2010).
Lack of Motivation
Online learners must exhibit self-discipline in order to be successful. Students who have trouble with procrastination and time management will have difficulties completing their work and avoiding distractions. Virtual schools also lack the structure found in traditional schools (Illinois Online Network, 2010).
Unpreparedness
Students enrolled in virtual schools are unprepared to meet the challenges of collegiate life. They often lack the social and academic skills to succeed at the next level. Many have trouble adapting to the normalcy and structure of brick and mortar schools. They also have difficulties adapting to paper and pencil tests and assignments (Illinois Online Network, 2010).
http://www.thetowntalk.com/article/20121202/NEWS/121202011