Why I Love Online Learning (And You Might Too)

We often talk about writing and all things bookish here on the blog, but in light of current events, I feel it is important to share about another “hat” I wear: being an online teacher.

As an English teacher, I am a believer in online education and homeschooling. Although I realize these schooling solutions are not a fit for all students, I personally enjoyed homeschooling as a student and now teaching online as a profession. Even if you’re considering online learning for a season, I want to share the benefits it can offer.

Why study online or at home?

I was homeschooled from first grade through high school. As a result, I had more time to pursue my passion for writing, gain work experience at a young age, and graduate from high school with college courses already completed. (Many in-person schools also offer dual-enrollment options as well.)

Why I loved homeschooling from a student perspective:

• You can work at your own pace. There are no other students slowing you down and no lecture that’s leaving you behind.
• Because you work at your pace, you are so much more efficient with your time. When I homeschooled, if I hustled in the morning, I could be done on some days by noon which left room for free time or afternoon jobs.
• When you do need help, you get one-on-one attention. At the online academy where I teach, students can book individual sessions with their teacher in advance or join an academic support session for immediate help with another English teacher.
• You have flexibility. If your family wants to take a vacation, you take a vacation.

For over four years, I’ve been teaching English online. From a teacher perspective:

• Even though I work with more students, I absolutely love that I work with them one-on-one when they need help.
• The approach allows me to be “hands on” when needed and “hands off” unless necessary. Honestly, no one wants a teacher breathing down his neck. I think this approach definitely results in more personal motivation for the student.
• I don’t waste time in a commute and in busywork related to maintaining a physical classroom.
• I also enjoy more flexibility and the comfort (and these days, safety) of working from home.

In light of Covid19, there has never been a better time to be a home learner or teacher. That’s why, in addition to teaching online for an amazing accredited academy, I am excited to be part of a brand new online community, created by author and teacher Victoria Duerstock.

About Study Anything Online

Study Anything Online is a growing course marketplace and homeschool community where students and families can find free resources and reasonably priced courses that meet their needs.

I’m offering two English elective courses, one that helps students navigate the often confusing world of essay writing and a second course that explains correct MLA documentation and format. I’ve taken my experience teaching students these very topics and created some practical, hands-on (and dare I say, fun?) classes on these oh-so-important subjects.

These courses are ideal for 7-12^th graders, because regardless of the essay’s level of difficulty, the same basic principles apply. They are also a perfect refresher course for adults who are returning to the classroom themselves or wanting to help their student understand essay writing but haven’t picked up an English textbook in a while.

5 Steps to Essay Writing Success

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MLA Documentation & Format

Opportunities for life-long learners

I am both a teacher and a life-long leaner. From reading books to taking courses created by respected experts in fields that interest me, I plan to always keep growing as a professional.

Study Anything Online also offers business training courses for the adult leaner. Another great online platform, designed specifically for writers, is Serious Writer Academy, and I offer several writing courses there as well.

The bottom line? Education should work for you, for your family, and for your dreams. Whether that’s in-person, online, or a hybrid approach, I wish you the best this year!

Have you tried online learning, or are you interested in doing so? Please share your experiences and thoughts in the comments!

~ Kristen