Online Learning in Illinois: A Study of the Views of High School Principals

Authors: Scott Day - University of Illinois (Springfield), Anthony Picciano (City University of New York) and Jeff Seaman (Babson College Survey Research Group) The purpose of this study was to examine the role that online and blended learning were playing in addressing the thoughts, concerns and issues facing Illinois high school principals. Data were collected from a sample of high school principals who were members of the Illinois Principals Association with respect to the extent, nature, and reasons for participating in online learning programs. Issues presented included: 1. high school graduation rates and credit recovery 2. building bridges to college careers 3. differentiating instruction 4. financial and policy issues 5. the pedagogy of online and blended learning 6. providers of online services to high schools. This study was based on similar national studies conducted by Anthony Picciano and Jeff Seaman in 2010 (see: Picciano, A.G. & Seaman, J. (2009-2010). Class Connections: High School Reform and the Role of Online Online Learning. http://www3.babson.edu/Newsroom/Releases/online-high-school-learning.cfm)