Interested in online homeschooling but overwhelmed by all of the options? We’ve been there, done that.
Choosing an online class for your K-12 student is a challenge, but we can help simplify the process. Our list of questions will make it easy to pick an online homeschool course for your family.
Online homeschool programs keep popping up- some are ‘accredited’, some are independent, some are large, some are ‘live’, some are new- how the heck do you choose an online class?
Want to listen listen to our interview with Lisa Nehring from True North Homeschool Academy regarding choosing an online class or program? Click here to hear her advice.
Our family has almost 7 years of experience with online school and we have used tons of options (some with amazing success and some we would rather forget like the teacher who simply stopped showing up). My goal is for you to avoid that annoying ‘situation’ I would prefer to forget.
If you haven’t already determined your preferred type of online homeschool, take a step back and answer these questions and review these options for types of online school. Then, come back and use these questions to can narrow down your search for classes and find the RIGHT fit for YOUR family and your learner’s style. Isn’t that the whole purpose of online and homeschool? You can truly tailor the learning exactly how you want to.
For reviews of specific providers, classes, and programs, make sure to join our Private Facebook Group. Now- on with the specific questions.
25 Questions To Ask BEFORE Signing Up For An Online Homeschool Class….how to choose an online class!
1. Is the online homeschool class taught by a teacher or an automated computer / robot?
2. Does the online class have a ‘live’ component? If the answer is “no”, move to question #10.
3. How many students are part of the ‘live’ class component? Bonus question: what is the age range for the course?
4. What happens if the teacher is sick or has technology difficulties (or other reasons for being unavailable) for the ‘live’ class component? Is the class recorded or offered at an additional time (what day/ time would that be?). Bonus question: What if a student needs to miss an online homeschool class?
5. What are the technological requirements for the live class component? Is a microphone and /or headset required for the virtual class?
6. If students participate in the ‘live’ class, how is this done? Is it via chat or microphone? Are students shown on camera? Bonus question: If cameras are used, are they required?
7. Is participation within the ‘live’ class part of the course grade? Bonus question: Gather clarity on how participation is defined in a virtual environment.
8. Are group projects part of the class? If so, how are these assigned and conducted?
9. What learning management platform / software is used for the ‘live’ class (eg, Zoom, Google Hangouts, Jigsaw….)?
The remaining questions are for both ‘live’ and ‘flex’ or recorded courses. These will help you choose an online class appropriate or your learner’s style.
10. What learning management platform is used for the online course content (eg, Canvas or other)?
11. How much online homeschool teaching experience does the teacher have?
12. What are the technological requirements for daily coursework?
13. What types of assignments and coursework are assigned and how are they graded?
14. How are quizzes, tests, and other assignments given and assessed?
15. How is late work handled (or vacations)?
16. Are enrichment assignments, honors classes, or AP classes offered?
17. Are any online homeschool classes NCAA approved?
18. What is the cost of the class? Are any discounts given for siblings or if you sign up for more than one course?
19. Are there any additional costs that should be taken into account, such as books, lab materials, or project supplies?
20. Are there any opportunities to connect with peers within the course of the online K-12 program?
21. How many hours per day or week should the student plan for course work (knowing this varies by student, it’s important to ask for an approximate)?
22. How much parental involvement is required for the online homeschool calss?
23. How can the student obtain extra assistance if they have questions or need help with the courswork?
24. Is the class/ program secular or non-secular?
25. Is a trial class available?
Important note– there are no right or wrong answers to any of these questions- these are simply to gather information to help families choose the RIGHT online classes for their children and their style. The continual expansion of online class options means every family can find a course that works for them. Picking an online homeschool class takes some work up front, but your time will be worth it!
Be sure to sign-up for our private Facebook Group to discuss all things related to Online School!
Ready to check out your online class options? We have lists for you…