Research into the Teaching of K-12 Online Learning Summary

     The readings and other media for this portion of the MOOC really got my attention.  Kathryn Kennedy introduces the resources and reminds us that all 50 states have some online learning opportunities for K-12 students based on "Keeping Pace with K-12 Online Learning:  An Annual Review of Policy and Practice" by Watson, Murin, Vashaw, Gemin, & Rapp in 2011.  As well, we were reminded that some states are requiring students to take at least one online course before they graduate from high school (Watson et al., 2011).
     If you haven't watched "A Vision for K-12 Students", "Paying Attention", and " A Vision of a 21st Century teacher", you must.  They are amazing and really are a wake up call to use innovative technology in the classroom in a big way.  We are to engage our students.  On the blog activity, I reviewed the resource from my state and found it very eye opening.  It appears that we are on the cutting edge of implementation with all teachers.  I know in my county we are in the initial stages of blended and online learning, but it is moving at a rapid pace.
     As well, I reviewed the resource "Future Directions in Teacher Preparation" video.  It pointed out some low points in the future of online learning.  Those were also highlighted in the blog activity. There are as well many other wonderful resources in this part of the MOOC that I reviewed regarding research into the teaching of K-12 online learning.

Watson, J., Murin, A., Vashaw, L., Gemin, B., & Rapp, C. (2011). Keeping Pace with
          K–12 Online Learning: An Annual Review of Policy and Practice. Evergreen,
          CO: Evergreen Education Group.