This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Health & Fitness

Everything You Need to Know About "Blended" Learning

More than “computers in classrooms,” blended learning is a unique approach to education that fully integrates online and in-person learning.  Right now, in Michigan, there are blended schools that offer students this cutting-edge school experience.

At Nexus Academy of Royal Oak, a blended tuition-free public high school for students in grades 9-12, we have noticed that many of the same questions are being asked by families. Below are some FAQs that will help families and high school students determine if blended learning is right for them.

1.       What is blended learning?

Find out what's happening in Hartlandwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Leveraging the power of technology, blended learning is an education model that allows students to take more control of their learning; creating an individualized approach that works best for them. It combines in-person and online learning, and students get both the instructional support they need and flexibility they desire. Students spend part of their time in a brick-and-mortar school with teachers on-site, and do the remainder of their learning online at home (or wherever is most convenient for them).

2.       What are the benefits of blended learning?

Find out what's happening in Hartlandwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The main benefit of blended learning is that students are able to learn at a pace that is right for them, whether that means going through lessons at a faster rate or taking additional time to master a subject. Online lessons are always available, so students are able to spend more time on extra-curricular activities, jobs or internships while staying on track with their school work. Additionally, students gain experience working in both face-to-face and virtual environments, thus preparing them for 21st century careers.

3.       What is the school campus like?

At Nexus Academy of Royal Oak, our modern, state-of-the-art campus has an open floor plan. The furniture is moveable, which allows students to collaborate when they need to or to move and work alone in their own space. Our space also has classrooms used for lessons and a fitness center – along with a personal trainer – that they may use while on-site.

4.       What is a student’s typical day like?

 

Students attend either a morning (8:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon) or afternoon (12:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.) session on campus four days a week: Tuesday–Friday for the morning session, and Monday–Thursday for the afternoon session. Students are expected to put in a minimum of six hours per day. They spend four hours on campus plus two additional hours online for campus days and six hours online on their off-campus day. Students are welcome to put in more time on any day if they need to or choose to. Students may also spend additional time on campus as needed.

 

5.       What qualifications do the teachers have?

 

Our teachers are evaluated twice a year according to State recommended guidelines. Each teacher is specially trained in virtually learning.

 

6.       Is the curriculum aligned with State Standards?

 

The curriculum at Nexus Academy is aligned to state and national standards, including the Common Core curriculum. The comprehensive online curriculum includes AP courses, foreign languages, core academics and more. Among the engaging electives offered is Juilliard eLearning, an online music course developed exclusively with the famed conservatory.

 

7.       How do we enroll at Nexus Academy of Royal Oak?

 

To enroll your student at Nexus Academy of Royal Oak or for more information, please visit http://www.nexusacademyschool.com/blended-learning/michigan/royal-oak/enroll.aspx
We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?