Impact of Online Learning in K-12

Abstract

Online learning capabilities in K-12 education have changed tremendously in the past years and are continually evolving in the traditional classrooms. The overall growth in the total number of high school students currently taking online distance learning courses as well as the importance of distance learning as a solution to educational challenges has increased the need to study more closely the factors that contribute to distance learning outcomes and success rates in K-12. Therefore, the challenge that emerges for educators, researchers, scholars, and advocates for students is to carefully and effectively join the growth and power of K-12 online learning for the benefit of the students involved. This chapter provides an overview of factors that contribute to learning outcomes and success rates for K-12 distance education. Some of the challenges, issues, and considerations affecting implementation of K-12 online education are discussed.