Online instruction has become an easy target to blame for learning loss during the pandemic. But in fact, it is a rich resource that can strengthen current classroom teaching and also prepare schools to weather future school closings. In Online By Choice, Stephanie Moore and Michael Barbour argue persuasively that online learning is a precious source of resilience and flexibility for schools now and going forward—an important feature of a robust ecosystem along with face-to-face and blended instruction—and that failing to incorporate online is strategically impoverished. Choosing online instruction is very different from rushing to remote learning in an emergency manner, however, and doing it well involves a myriad of decisions. These authors provide essential guidance and tools for teachers and school leaders as they select, design and implement online education solutions, including the “handshakes” needed to align instructional needs with school or district-level infrastructure and supports.

"Online, Blended and Distance Education in Schools" provides students enrolled in Education Technology and Masters and PhD programs with expert opinions and insights on the practice and policy regarding K-12 distance, online and blended programs, including curriculum, instruction, technology and management aspects. It describes the status and trends of the field, provides illustrative program examples, explores the issues and challenges that programs face and highlights ongoing research in key areas related to program effectiveness. Topics discussed: * The current status of K-12 online, distance and blended learning in the U.S.* Policy, funding, and management issues in relation to program implementation* Research on effective programs within governmental jurisdiction and various program types* Global case studies that represent the variety of ways programs are being successfully implemented * A synthesis of key findings and lessons learned, and local and global visions for the future of K-12 distance and online learningThis text is highly appropriate for students enrolled in Educational Technology and Higher Education Administration Masters and PhD programs. The pedagogical features added throughout were created to enhance the text in a classroom setting.

"Online, Blended and Distance Education in Schools" provides students enrolled in Education Technology and Masters and PhD programs with expert opinions and insights on the practice and policy regarding K-12 distance, online and blended programs, including curriculum, instruction, technology and management aspects. It describes the status and trends of the field, provides illustrative program examples, explores the issues and challenges that programs face and highlights ongoing research in key areas related to program effectiveness. Topics discussed: * The current status of K-12 online, distance and blended learning in the U.S.* Policy, funding, and management issues in relation to program implementation* Research on effective programs within governmental jurisdiction and various program types* Global case studies that represent the variety of ways programs are being successfully implemented * A synthesis of key findings and lessons learned, and local and global visions for the future of K-12 distance and online learningThis text is highly appropriate for students enrolled in Educational Technology and Higher Education Administration Masters and PhD programs. The pedagogical features added throughout were created to enhance the text in a classroom setting.