Individualized Learning Plan & 504 Plan Suggested Accommodations

Introduction:

The list below provides answers to frequently asked questions about online course accommodations.

Details:

• Are there frequent breaks?
  Work is done at student’s own pace. There are many tests that also require a test to be finished once it has been started, but students can take a break whenever needed. Students should note that if they close the browser or wait too long to complete a test or a quiz, this might cause the computer to go into hibernation mode resulting in accidental submission.
• Can online learning accommodate the hearing impaired?
  Headsets can be utilized. Talk-to-text can be used with some courses. Checking out the ability of a course to easily use this function is recommended before registering for a class.
• Can online learning reduce assignments or workloads?
  Courses are developed based on the State standards and while accommodations can be made, modifications which would result in change to content (thus no longer meeting standards) cannot. This needs to be reviewed on an individual basis. Many times assignments cannot be reduced due to material either being new or necessary for future work.
• Can students be provided modified texts or alternative books?
  Online programs do not have alternative books or modified text. Many of the texts and material is embedded in the course with the exception of ELA/Visual Arts courses which require additional resources outlined in the syllabus. Courses do offer a variety of learning systems. Some courses are more text oriented and others may be more audio-visual. We recommend that the parent and students talk to the counselor or mentor before registering.
• Can students receive an extended term (one term class in two terms)?
  Special arrangements should be organized with Customer Service and Instructional managers to accommodate such a request. It may be possible for schools to enroll student again in the same class the next semester. Without prior arrangement, students must abide by our course end dates. A 30 day trial period is provided to see if it’s a good fit.
• Can students resubmit assignments?
  Student should contact the instructor and request this option. Online courses look for mastery learning, and instructors will accommodate this when necessary.
• Can students use a calculator?
  Many of the math programs have online calculator options. Student may also bring a personal calculator for use.
• Can students use an iPod or other music while learning?
  Much of the course work is done outside of school and the use of music is allowed even without headphones.
• Do courses provide a teacher and guided notes?
  Some, but not all courses, provide teacher or guided notes. If this is a critical component consult with the school counselor or mentor for help in choosing the most appropriate course.
• Do students receive final grading (pass/fail vs. letter grading)?
  We will report points earned out of total points in the course. We do not provide a ‘final grade’ but rather a final score. The school can convert those points into their own grading scheme, e.g. pass/fail if they so choose.
• Do students receive help with organization?
  Classes are inherently organized. Students can follow a logical format. Once assignments are completed they are directly submitted for grading to the instructor. Mentors can also assist with organization.
• Does online learning support visual learners?
   Some of the online courses (ex. Edgenuity) have many videos for the student to watch. These videos may be replayed multiple times allowing the student to take notes and work at his/her own pace. Students/Mentors can also reach out to instructor for additional resources for supporting gaps.
• Is preferential seating available?
  Students learn in front of a computer and the family chooses the learning environment.
• Will courses allow extensions on assignments?
  Extended time does not mean extended term. All courses have a set end date. However, there are no steadfast, unwavering assignment due dates in regular (non-AP) courses. Students are not penalized for turning in work past the suggested due date in regular (non-AP) courses as long as it is within the course term time frame. Students in AP courses are expected to use additional time outside of the school hours (i.e. at home) to meet the expectations of the course pacing guide and due dates, rather than expecting extensions from the instructor. Students complete a pacing guide to help them determine where they should be in a course, but when an assignment is turned in is the decision of the student. Students need to keep in mind that they need to produce and turn in assignments on a regular basis, so they don’t fall behind in the course.
• Will online learning group information into smaller segments with tentative due dates?
  Online classes allow students to do small amounts of work at a time. Students do need to be aware that this does not reduce the overall work, but it will allow a student to break up the work into small segments; this way several segments can be accomplished over a longer period of time, with breaks.
• Will online learning provide alternative settings for tests?
  Many tests are taken at the student’s discretion of time and place. If the proctored test session is too distracting, then the student can request an appointment for an individual test session with his/her mentor.
• Will students be granted extended quiz or test time?
  All quizzes and tests can be taken over an extended time period. Tests/quizzes that are timed can be accommodated by the instructor (mentor and student need to make specific arrangements with instructor).
• Will students be provided oral retakes of quizzes/tests?
  Online classes are taught through the use of a computer and instructors are not on demand. Oral testing options are not provided through online courses and would be the responsibility of the home school to arrange and conduct.
• Will students have the ability to retake quizzes or tests?
  Students may have an opportunity to retake quizzes or tests. This needs to be reviewed on an individual basis. Most online courses give a grade on total work completed. It is recommended that students complete all work in a course first and then go back, review, and retake any test or quiz for an improved grade. Doing very well on a small number of quizzes and test but not completing all work in courses with a passing score will most likely not be earned if a student has done well on all quizzes and tests, but has failed to complete the accompanying coursework.
• Will students have the ability to use larger print materials?
  Since work is done on a computer font size can always be adjusted. Students can also use the zoom feature.
• Will students receive advanced notice of large assignments and tests?
  Online courses expectations are transparent. All the course requirements and suggested due dates are given at the beginning of the course.
• Will students receive frequent prompts and checks for understanding?
  Online curriculum often quizzes students after small segments of work. If the student does not do well, the computer will suggest that the student review the chapter, video, etc. and offer a chance to retake the quiz. Some courses offer more prompts than others.
• Will students use a computer for assignments?
  All work is done on the computer.
• Will students use notes or note cards?
  Use of note/note cards is always an option.
• Will the student have the ability to retake specific areas not mastered?
  Online courses cannot single out questions. If a student wishes to retake, they must retake the full assignment/quiz/test.
• Will the teacher frequently check for comprehension of test directions, tests, questions, test format, assignment, and/or understanding of curriculum?
  By nature, online courses are independent learning experiences chosen as an alternative by the family. Teachers are not on demand and interaction with a student in a one-to-one setting is limited and primary through electric means. Arrangements can be made to have a mentor proctor exams. Please keep in mind that students that require weekly, or more frequent, contact with a mentor or teacher may not be well suited for an online course, which can lead to frustration.