Since the advent of online learning, there have been a variety of different students who have leveraged the benefits of a non-traditional classroom. Whether students cannot attend classes on a regular basis due to personal or health-related reasons, athletic commitments, full-time jobs or accessibility reasons, the online world of learning has opened up alternative options for today’s diverse learners.
Online Learning with Ontario Virtual School
As a French teacher with Ontario Virtual School, I have had the privilege of instructing students from all different parts of the world and who are each on their own learning journey. I have a great deal of admiration for these students, as they have taken ownership of their learning pathway. Whether it’s taking a full courseload with OVS, such as their entire Grade 12 year, or just specific credits, such as Gr. 12 English or Gr. 12 Functions online, these students have discovered how to make learning work for them without sacrificing other areas of their lives.
The Love of Learning Online
I recently had one of my students reach out to me to express their excitement to begin FSF1D and to add it to their repertoire of online learning courses. This student explained to me that once they switched to online learning during the pandemic, they couldn’t imagine returning to a traditional classroom or dayschool. They fell in love with online learning and they’ve never looked back!
Benefits of Online Learning
During my email interactions with the student, they identified some key advantages to pursuing online school vs. traditional school:
- OVS has no deadlines; this student appreciates how they can finish a course in as quickly as 4 weeks or take a slower pace and finish it in up to 12 months
- The ability to take tests and complete assignments online – compared to in-person – has significantly reduced this student’s stress and improved mental health
- Without bell times or periods, there is a great deal of flexibility. This student lives on a farm and is able to complete daily chores and learn the value of agriculture, while still completing course work
- The ability to dedicate full days to certain courses has helped the student stay organized. For example, they like to do Math on Mondays and French on Tuesdays.
- Movement is an important part of overall health learning. This student enjoys the option of going on a walk or playing a sport in between working on courses.
- There’s something to be said for being comfortable while learning. This student enjoys being in the comfort of their own home, in a comfortable chair and workspace.
- Time on task is a key component to learning effectively. This student appreciates not being distracted by nearby un-motivated students.
- Asynchronous learning allows for other skills to be honed. This student loves to play the piano and is very passionate about music.
Try It Out!
There is no doubt that this student is an example of online high school student success. They have fully embraced the flexibility and no-nonsense style of online learning, allowing them to pursue other interests and hobbies. If you or someone you know is interested in trying out an online course, contact OVS today!
Q & A
Q: Who can benefit from online learning?
A: Online learning is a great option for a wide variety of students, such as those with health considerations, busy athletes, students with part-time or full-time jobs, learners in remote areas, or anyone who thrives with more independence and flexibility.
Q: How long do students have to complete an Ontario Virtual School (OVS) course?
A: Students can move at their own pace. Some finish a course in as little as 4 weeks, while others take up to 12 months. The timeline depends entirely on their personal goals and schedule.
Q: Are there set deadlines or class times?
A: No. OVS courses are fully asynchronous, meaning students aren’t tied to daily bell times, rigid schedules, or fixed deadlines. They can design a routine that works best for them.
Q: How does online learning support student well-being?
A: Many students find online learning reduces stress and improves mental health. Without the pressure of in-person tests or the distractions of a crowded classroom, they can focus more calmly on their studies.
Q: Can students balance online learning with other commitments?
A: Absolutely. From farm chores to music practice, students often use the flexibility of online learning to balance academics with hobbies, athletics, family responsibilities, or work.
Written by Natalie Tayler (OVS Teacher)
Sources:
CFA-FCA | Canadian Federation of Agriculture. (n.d.). https://www.cfa-fca.ca/
Integrating Movement Breaks into your Class | Centre for Teaching Excellence | University of Waterloo. (n.d.). https://uwaterloo.ca/centre-for-teaching-excellence/catalogs/tip-sheets/integrating-movement-breaks-your-class
Korbey, H. (2022, April 22). How music primes the brain for learning. Edutopia. https://www.edutopia.org/article/how-music-primes-brain-learning/
Leek, J., Rojek, M., Dobińska, G., & Kosiorek, M. (2024). Navigating the power of time in classroom practices: teachers’ and students’ perspectives. Educational Review, 1–23. https://doi.org/10.1080/00131911.2024.2438878
Pixels, P. (2025, August 20). How does physical comfort affect learning? Westcountry Group. https://www.westcountrygroup.com/education/how-does-physical-comfort-affect-learning#:~:text=With%20less%20oxygen%20reaching%20the,and%20reduced%20participation%20in%20lessons.