Chicago Online Learning Proves Popular, Controversial

The Chicago Tribune (4/25, Keilman) reports in the impact of virtual learning in Illinois schools, profiling one student who has "studied the stars, the human body and other subjects in virtual classrooms where teachers were present only through instant messaging, email or occasional video links." The piece notes that some observers think online classes "will transform K-12 learning," adding that they "are popping up with increasing frequency in Chicago-area high schools - and even middle schools - promising to help high-fliers and stragglers alike get the most from their education." However, "Critics say the trend is more about saving money than improving education, and that the effectiveness of online courses remains unproven."