K-12 online learning is growing rapidly and evolving in many different directions. As it evolves it is merging with face-to-face instruction, and the result, blended learning, is likely the fastest-growing segment in online learning. Other ways in which online and blended learning are evolving mix online instruction with other elements of educational technology. Instruction may be entirely classroom-based, but use computers, the Internet, and other technologies to enhance learning. Keeping Pace 2010 explores many of these trends, but uses online learning—which we define as teacher-led instruction that takes place over the Internet, with the teacher and student separated geographically—as the starting point.2

Many terms and definitions in the field, such as online learning, blended learning, hybrid learning, elearning, virtual schools, and cyberschools, do not have commonly understood definitions. Online learning is instruction via a web-based educational delivery system that includes software to provide a structured learning environment. It enhances and expands educational opportunities, and may be synchronous (communication in which participants interact in real time such as videoconferencing) or asynchronous (communication that is separated by time such as email or online discussion forums). It may be accessed from multiple settings (in school and/or out of school buildings). Blended learning combines online learning with other modes of instructional delivery.

One of the misconceptions about learning online is that online courses consist mostly of reading on a computer screen. While this may be true of a few online programs, in most online courses there is a high degree of communication and interaction between teachers and students. In fact, many online teachers report that teaching online is more time consuming than teaching in a classroom because of the amount of individual attention each online student receives. Courses are delivered via a software package called a learning management system (LMS), which includes communication tools, instructional tools, and assessment features.

The teacher in online and blended courses is just as important as the teacher in the physical classroom. An online teacher’s roles include guiding and individualizing learning; communication with students; assessing, grading, and promoting students; and, in some cases, developing the online course content and structure.

2 A National Primer on K-12 Online Learning (Version 2, 2010), by Matthew Wicks and published by the International Association for K-12 Online Learning (iNACOL). Available at www.inacol.org