Providing Chances for Students to Recover Credit: Is Online Learning a Solution?

Abstract

Abstract Purpose This chapter presents data from research studies specifically aimed at gathering the perspectives of K-12 students who are taking online courses for credit recovery, their virtual school teachers, and face-to-face school support professionals. Approach This research employed ethnographic techniques to explore the benefits and challenges of online learning as a strategy for credit recovery. Findings Our research explores several key findings. The data suggest that the benefits and challenges of online learning for students are one in the same. With proper orientation, individualized support, and purposeful structuring of online programs, online and blended learning as a potential solution for credit recovery students, potentially decreasing the number of future high school dropouts. Implications This chapter suggests a need to look more carefully at orientation, support, and structuring procedures for online credit recovery. Value This chapter is very valuable as a tool for thinking about credit recovery online. It also provides valuable insight into credit recovery from the perspectives of students who are doing the online courses.