Virtual Learning in New Zealand Schools Current Practice & Future Possibilities

Abstract

This article explores the practice of virtual learning in New Zealand schools. It reports on a study that examined how virtual learning has evolved over the last 30 years, how it is currently experienced by students and teachers, and makes recommendations for the future. Research participants were teaching principals selected from eight small rural New Zealand primary schools who were all active in Virtual Learning Network Primary School online programmes. The participants’ experience of virtual learning highlighted a wide range of benefits for both themselves and their students, in providing access to a wider curriculum, developing digital fluency, reducing professional isolation and relieving workload. Recommendations are made to school communities on how they can move forward with learning online; and to government on how they can develop policy and provide resourcing to support virtual learning in schools. It is suggested that with fast reliable internet, the small school that is open, networked, and collaborative can increase its capacity to provide learning opportunities for both students and teachers through virtual learning.