College and Career Preparation

Today’s students need to be ready for online learning in higher education, and the best way to prepare them is by offering high-quality online courses during high school or even earlier. Shane Martin sees hybrid learning models in colleges, where students engage with course content online and then collaborate in person for discussions and projects. He believes high schools should adopt this approach to help students develop the digital skills and adaptability they’ll need for success in the future.

Martin suggests that fully asynchronous learning options before college can be a lesson in pacing and time management. Teachers can play an essential role at these earlier grade levels: coach.

“There’s a way to personalize asynchronous courses or modules with pacing so it is not simply ‘students, you’re on your own,’” he notes. By regularly checking in with students and utilizing online dashboards, teachers can ensure that students stay on track and receive the support they need, even when working at their own pace. This hands-on approach helps students develop the discipline and independence required for college-level online courses.

Beyond school, in today’s digital economy, students and professionals must be digitally literate. Online courses offer students an opportunity to digitally collaborate, to effectively use technology, and to develop communication skills. In some cases, students can take online courses that provide preparation for a specific career. Online courses provide a safe and structured environment for students to develop the skills needed for success in college and beyond.

Academics

Beyond preparing students for the demands of colleges and universities, schools can reach more learners by offering online courses. With online courses, students have the advantage of course choice and extensive learning options without a strain on the school’s infrastructure or faculty. Schools can help these students find the best options for their needs, offering courses and working with students to achieve their goals with a broad array of options covering many interests (think a variety of electives, world languages, Honors/Advanced Placement®, and credit recovery).

Expanding curriculum and course offerings is not unique to K–12 Catholic schools. Catholic colleges and universities are also embracing this approach to overcome limitations and provide students with greater choices and opportunities, says Shane Martin.

Cost Effectiveness

An important advantage of online learning for both institutions and students is cost. With online partners, schools can expand their course offerings without large overhead and extra expenses associated with increased programming, while still offering regular in-person courses. For students, online learning tends to be affordable, and many schools pass on the cost of additional online courses to families including a small percentage for administrative fees.

Accelerated Graduation

Another advantage of online learning is accelerated time-to-degree timing. A study published through the Annenberg Institute at Brown University noted that the graduation results from online learning demonstrate improved time-to-degree periods. This can also be true of students in high school who might like to take additional courses prior to graduation to earn college credit or to enhance college applications.

Autonomous Learning

Autonomy for students has been an enormous benefit of online learning. Learning virtually has opened new pathways to design an academic and career plan. Some students have physical or mental health difficulties that prevent them from being able to attend school. Student athletes or those with travel commitments are away from the classroom too often to succeed in a traditional school setting. These students can access educational opportunities in ways they might otherwise be unable to, thanks to online learning.

Preparing Students for a Digital Future

Online learning has become a cornerstone of modern education, offering students the flexibility, skills, and opportunities they need to thrive in higher education and beyond. For K–12 school leaders, integrating online courses into the curriculum is not just a way to expand academic offerings, but a crucial step in preparing students for the realities of college.

The benefits are clear: greater accessibility, cost-effective solutions, and enhanced academic experiences. By embracing online learning, schools can equip students with the digital literacy, autonomy, and collaboration skills that are essential in today’s educational and professional environments. The future of education is digital—ensure your students are ready for it.