The PBS Parents' Child Development Tracker shows that 3-year-olds learn by exploring. Online games such as those offered on PBSKids.org help children explore topics like listening, counting and letter recognition using a game-centered approach.
"Play is the way children learn," says Jane K. Frobose of Colorado State University. Online education is a way children can acclimate themselves to concepts commonly taught in preschool. It can be used to supplement in-person learning, as a readiness tool for youngsters preparing to enter preschool and as a way for parents to become involved in the learning process.
"The Journal" reports that the percentage of high schoolers enrolled in an online class doubled between 2009 and 2010. There are several ways a high school student can participate in this learning approach. Traditional classrooms may be equipped with computers for each student. Students may have online worksheets or research to complete. Some students may engage in distance learning for a portion of the high school curriculum, participating in a self-directed course for which they receive credit. Finally, a student may participate in a fully-accredited high school program online. Instruction may be self-directed study or teacher-led through a lecture which the student logs into.
Campus life can be enhanced by online learning opportunities. Professors may set up a classroom forum that encourages interaction among students. Students can clarify information presented in class or raise questions that were not addressed there. A professor may also keep online office hours if students are in need of extra help. Virtual office hours may be casually presented through instant messaging. To track the course's progress, the professor may also post the course syllabus online and provide a virtual drop-off for completed assignments.
Many professionals, in particular those required to maintain a state or professional license, are required to participate in continuing education. While some of this must be in a classroom-based environment, other courses may be taken online. Offered courses may involve reading course materials online and answering a series of questions. This type of course can be completed in time intervals convenient for the student. Other courses may include prerecorded lectures or live, interactive presentations where students are allowed and encouraged to participate in the discussion.