Virtual Learning Has Yet to Reach Revolution Status.

According to this article from the BBC, virtual learning has gotten off to to slow. The main reason seems to be a lack of proliferation in primary schools (secondary and colleges are doing slightly better). Outside of a few ambitious teachers, virtual learning executions have not been widely implemented through out schools. Online and digital elements were introduced on a high level back in 2000, so whats the hold up?

The article points out that based on an investigation of more than 40 different types of institutions, they found “no example of virtual learning providing a “comprehensive” range of materials for every subject”. This may also be why the benefits of virtual learning are “not yet obvious”. The natural reaction is to suggest that not enough time and effort has been made into transitioning from traditional learning materials. After all, it’s a significant shift in how teachers teach and how students learn. I would reason, that it is going to take a new wave of young teachers who have grown up with this technology to fully deliver the benefits of virtual learning. Not that veteran teachers aren’t able to learn and apply, but they have their own style that works for them and gets results.

I wouldn’t expect the push towards virtual learning to stop or even slow down. Reform is a slow train and technology is what we humans are designed to create and improve upon. Despite the slow start, expect education technology to push on. It just may take a bit longer for all of us to catch on.