Students' top 10

Why do students like learning online? According to the Innovative Educator blog, at a 2010 symposium of the International Association for K–12 Online Learning, a panel of students came up with 10 reasons.

1. I can sleep in.

Sounds indulgent, but adolescents often don't function well early in the day. E-learning offers students the chance to learn when they're well rested and most alert.

2. I can pursue my passions.

Some students want to learn online to free time for a pursuit - from sports to acting - that they can't fit into the traditional school day.

3. I can focus on my work without distractions.

With online learning many regular school distractions - socializing, announcements, disruptive classmates - disappear; students can focus all of their attention on learning.

4. I can move at my own pace.

For some this means demonstrating competency early and advancing faster; for others it means learning at a slower pace and receiving additional support if necessary.

5. I don't have to compete to share my thoughts and ideas.

The online environment is equitable. It's not just the visible or loud students who are heard. Anyone can comment on posts or participate in discussion forums.

6. I can take more interesting classes

E-learning offers more choice, as students aren't dependent on the staffing limitations of their particular school or community.

7. I can learn with a schedule that meets my needs.

There are many reasons why students might not be able to participate in the traditional classroom environment. With e-learning, these students are no longer left behind.

8. I can learn despite health issues that get in the way of a traditional class setting.

Students who are often late or absent due to health issues - from disabilities to illness to social disorders - can thrive in online environments.

9. I can communicate with my teacher when I need to.

Some students say it can be difficult to get their teacher's attention in a traditional period, and if they do, they may not want the entire class to hear the discussion. E-learning offers ample and easy opportunities to communicate with the teacher privately.

10. I can communicate with my classmates when I want to.

A traditional classroom can discourage students from communicating with each other; it can be disruptive to instruction or limited by the physical placement of students. The online environment makes it simple for students to connect.