Virtual Learning
Virtual learning has become an integral part of our educational system. Virtual learning can aid in
- Increasing student engagement and choice,
- Supporting personalized learning experiences for students, and
- Increasing equity in access to high quality learning experiences.
Virtual learning programs offer flexibility to students while providing instruction aligned with the Standards of Learning. A number of Virginia school divisions provide opportunities for their students to take online courses as a part of their regular course offerings.
Virtual Teaching & Learning Hub
Digital Devices in the Classroom: Health and Safety Guidelines
In January 2020, Virginia legislators passed House Bill 817
requiring the Department of Education (VDOE), in collaboration with the Department of Health and medical professional societies, to develop health and safety guidelines related to the use of digital devices in the classroom. The VDOE convened a Digital Devices in the Classroom Workgroup to develop guidelines.
The Digital Devices in the Classroom: Health and Safety Guidelines document-This is a Word document. address digital device use for different age ranges and developmental levels, the amount of time spent on digital devices in the classroom and for homework, appropriate break frequency from the use of digital devices, physical positioning of digital devices in the classroom, and recommended training to ensure best practices.
The Digital Devices in the Classroom: Health and Safety Guidelines infographic-This is a PDF document. includes three major focus areas to help support teaching and learning within these online models and include recommended training for school personnel.
- Devices and use of in the PreK-12 classroom
- Screen time, frequency and breaks
- Ergonomics and posture
Virtual Virginia
As a program of the Virginia Department of Education, Virtual Virginia (VVA) offers online Advanced Placement (AP), world language, core academic, and elective courses to students throughout the Commonwealth. Virtual Virginia is designed to meet the needs of students who otherwise would be unable to take these courses due to a lack of availability or scheduling conflicts within their school. Eligible students enroll in Virtual Virginia through their local schools. Visit Virtual Virginia for details about the program, including the course catalog, school registration information and more.
Multidivision Online Provider Program (MOP)
The 2010 General Assembly directed the Board of Education to establish criteria for the approval of virtual school programs that provide instruction to students in multiple school divisions. The criteria and processes approved by the board in November 2010 provide flexibility for diverse learners and ensure that instruction provided by multidivision online providers is aligned with state standards and provided by highly qualified teachers. More about the Mulltidivision Online Provider Program.
Virtual Learning Advisory Committee
The 2014 General Assembly directed VDOE to establish the Virtual Learning Advisory Committee (VLAC).