Pointing out the fact that students can excel in an online learning environment and the lower cost in educational programs, Van Beek recommends that Michigan expands its role to that of leader in the online education industry. States, like Florida, are spending up to 30% less per student that is enrolled full time compared to those that attend brick and mortar schools. Some schools are combining together to be able to offer classes to their students that they would not be able to otherwise due to limited numbers in class size. For example, if there are only 4 students at one school that are interested in learning Dutch, then it is not cost-effective to hire a traditional classroom teacher, however, if there are 4 students at one school, 2 at another and so on, then it is worth it to hire a virtual teacher to teach Dutch to all the students in one virtual classroom.
It is important that students are that are high achievers are able to keep on moving forward at their rate, as well as those students who are lagging behind to be able to learn the material and move forward at their pace. Van says that online education is a perfect solution for both situations. The students that are ahead can continue to move ahead, and those who are slower will be able to review the content over and over until they feel that they can get it and then move forward.
Lower cost, more options, and helps those who are high achievers and falling behind. Sounds like an educational solution other states should also try.