How To Choose a Distance Learning Management

Distance learning has long been used to provide university level classes and now K-12 educators finding it offers many advantages for younger students as well. School districts can offer select classes online or develop an entirely virtual school. The key to doing so effectively is to choose the right distance learning management system. By minimizing the work necessary to set up an online classroom and maximizing the teacher's flexibility, a good distance learning management system is the centerpiece of K-12 virtual education. School districts that sign up to use a comprehensive platform like the IQity Learning Management Suite find it to be an excellent strategy designed specifically for K-12 education.

Distance Learning Made Easy

Anyone who has endured a change of software programs at home or work might understandably be intimidated by the words "comprehensive platform." No need to worry. In the case of IQity, this simply means that the distance learning management system comes with administrative tools, teaching tools, and award-winning content: a complete package that makes offering online classes seamless.

Because IQity hosts and maintains the platform, there is no hardware for schools to buy, no software to install, and no technical support to supply. All users have to do is log in. Teachers will find it easy to create an inviting Classroom page, using school colors and personalized messages welcoming students and setting the tone for the class.

Included in IQity's distance learning management system is Reactor, a repository of standards-aligned content for every K-12 grade and subject. Teachers who know how to search the Internet have all the skills they need to find just the right content in Reactor, whether itÕs a math lesson, a social studies video, or a virtual biology lab. To transfer content from Reactor to the online classroom, teachers just need to "drag and drop," a simple process that's done without ever leaving the IQity classroom environment.

Many Options for Teachers

Teachers of online classes face different challenges than those in a traditional classroom. They haven't met their students in person, may not be familiar with their level of preparation or learning styles, and don't have direct contact with them. The IQity distance learning management system helps teachers meets these challenges effectively.

Reactor contains a variety of assessments that can help teachers quickly evaluate each student's baseline knowledge. For those who aren't responding well to one type of lesson, Reactor offers alternatives that are easy to download and assign on an individualized basis. The secure messaging system gives teachers a way to communicate one-to-one with each student.

A popular feature of the IQity distance learning management system is LiveBoard, a web-casting tool that allows teachers to address the entire class in real time. Students can see and hear the teacher just as if they were in a traditional classroom. Also included is an online whiteboard that can be used to illustrate a point to the class. Students can also use the whiteboard, so it facilitates class participation and allows for group projects.

IQity is the K-12 Solution

IQity's distance learning management system was created with K-12 educators in mind, unlike other systems that have been adapted from university or corporate training programs. Not only that, IQity is free to K-12 schools and school districts. To see how IQity can help your school, ask for an online demonstration led by one of our elearning experts.