In today’s digital age, technology plays an important role. Not only does it impact how students learn, but it also affects traditional teaching methods (Alenezi et al., 2023). Tools such as computers, laptops, tablets, and educational software are now commonly used both in and out of the classroom, creating new opportunities for learning and skill development. Not only do these tools help to support more interactive learning experiences, they also help personalize learning (Haleem et al., 2022). This personalized approach helps students take more responsibility for their learning and use tools that meet their specific needs.
The Online Learning Advantage
Ontario Virtual School is a virtual high school that encourages students to use digital tools to support their online learning experience. OVS recognizes that students have unique learning needs and that utilizing resources effectively are important learning skills for academic success. Whether students are just taking one course towards their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or several courses, there are a variety of Ontario Virtual School online courses for students to explore and several online learning resources that can be accessed to help mitigate any challenges in online learning.
Essential Learning Resources for Success
Subject | OVS Course Examples | Learning Resource |
French | BonPatron: This online resource is a French grammar and spelling checker that helps students identify and correct errors in their writing. It supports language learning by explaining mistakes and encouraging students to revise their work independently. | |
English | PurdueOWL: This online tool helps students with academic writing by providing clear guidance on grammar, essay structure, and research writing. It is especially well known for its step-by-step explanations and examples for correctly citing sources in MLA style. | |
Science | PhET Interactive Simulations: This online tool has over 125 free interactive simulations for educational use in physics, chemistry, biology, earth science, and mathematics. The simulations have been translated into over 121 different languages | |
Math
| Desmos: This online tool is a free, interactive online math tool that allows students to explore and visualize mathematical concepts such as graphs, equations, and functions. It helps make abstract math ideas more concrete. | |
History | Google Scholar: This online tool gives students access to credible, scholarly sources, such as peer-reviewed articles, books, and primary-source analyses. Using it helps students move beyond simple facts to understand historical debates, multiple perspectives, and evidence-based arguments. |
Using the Right Tools
Selecting the right tools is an important step in academic success, especially when taking courses online. Knowing where to find information, accessing credible research, editing written work and using visual manipulatives and simulations will deepen students’ understanding and solidify newly-learned concepts.
Explore Courses Today
If you’re looking for a learning environment that is tailored to learning needs and provides students with the flexibility to leverage online learning tools at any point throughout a course, then reach out today to Ontario Virtual School to see how you can take ownership of your learning journey!
Questions and Answers:
Do students need to be tech experts to succeed in online learning?
No. Students don’t need advanced technical skills, but they do need to be willing to learn how to use common digital tools. Developing these skills is part of the learning process and helps prepare students for post-secondary education and future careers.
Why are learning resources so important in online high school courses?
Online learning requires students to be more independent, and the right digital tools help them manage their work, deepen understanding, and take ownership of their learning. Resources like writing supports, simulations, and research tools make learning more interactive and accessible.
What kinds of learning tools are commonly used in online high school courses?
Online high school students often use tools for grammar and writing support, math visualization, science simulations, and academic research. These resources help students edit their work, explore complex concepts, and access credible information independently.
How does Ontario Virtual School support students in using these resources?
Ontario Virtual School encourages students to use digital learning tools throughout their courses and supports flexible, personalized learning. Students are guided to use resources that align with their courses and learning needs, helping them build strong academic and digital literacy skills.
Sources:
Alenezi, M., Wardat, S., & Akour, M. (2023). The need of Integrating digital education in higher Education: challenges and opportunities. Sustainability, 15(6), 4782. https://doi.org/10.3390/su15064782
Haleem, A., Javaid, M., Qadri, M. A., & Suman, R. (2022). Understanding the role of digital technologies in education: A review. Sustainable Operations and Computers, 3, 275–285. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.susoc.2022.05.004
Written by Natalie Tayler (OVS teacher)