(NCSSM online, 2011)
|
Hybrid Online - Residential Program NCSSM Online an alternative to public high school mathematics and science instruction, and is tuition free for juniors and seniors in North Carolina. Students attend their local high school, as well as NCSSM Online. The primary mode of instructional delivery for NCSSM Online is through the Internet, where students have a variety of online tools available. As the video indicates, part of the hybrid design of the learning experience is residential learning experiences on weekends during the school year and over the summer. In an email response regarding questions about the frequency of residential weekends, Online Residential Coordinator, Justin Plummer indicated the NCSSM Online students reside on campus, in a dorm-like setting two weekends a month. Mr. Plummer is a residential himself is responsibile for 27-30 students on his hall, but a total 660 online students attend the weekend programs throughout the year. Those in his position monitor the student-life portion of their time on campus, that is, what they are doing and how they interact when they are not involved in instruction (Plummer, 2012). Anna DeConti, AP Calculus Instructor, and Dean of Distance Education and Extended Programs, notes important components of the residential part of the program. First, socializing creates a sense of community. Ms. DeConti also notes face-to-face instruction for the purposes of labs and experiments reinforces concepts presented in the online classroom (DeConti, 2011). The coursework in NCSSM Online is essentially the same as the courses offered in the NCSSM residential program, only differing by the primary mode of instructional delivery. Students applying to NCSSM Online are evaluated not only academically, but are also evaluated with respect to their capabilities in being successful while learning in an online enviroment (NCSSM, 2011). |
