Exploring Virtual Education's Potential for Inclusive Learning Environments

About the Guest(s):

Alexis Thomason is an accomplished virtual art instructor at the Pearson Georgia Connections Academy. She has a robust background in teaching, having spent 25 years in various educational roles. Initially starting her career in middle school education with certifications in K-12 art and language arts for grades 4 through 8, Alexis transitioned to the virtual teaching sphere following her enriching experience during the COVID-19 pandemic. She is known for her dedication to fostering an inclusive and engaging educational environment that benefits all learners, including those with disabilities.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, host Tim Villegas explores the realm of virtual education alongside guest Alexis Thomason from the Georgia Connections Academy. This episode dives deep into the possibilities and challenges of providing inclusive education in an entirely virtual setup. With the rapid transition to online schooling during the COVID-19 pandemic, many educators faced the challenge of adapting their teaching methods. Alexis shares her journey from traditional classroom teaching to becoming a virtual art educator and discusses how online education can be a viable and inclusive option for students, especially those with disabilities.

As virtual education becomes a more prominent fixture in the educational landscape, Alexis outlines how Pearson Georgia Connections Academy operates as a tuition-free online public school, serving K-12 students. Emphasizing flexible learning and accessibility, Alexis explains how virtual schooling can uniquely support learners with disabilities, allowing for personalized and differentiated instruction. With insights on how virtual environments foster self-driven learning and teaching, Alexis provides a compelling case for educators and parents to consider virtual schooling as a potential avenue for their educational needs.

Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/12q3Th8cahLWUnBULlKfYnN34so

Key Takeaways:

• Virtual education can be an inclusive and accommodating environment for students, including those with disabilities, by offering personalized learning options.
• Pearson Georgia Connections Academy provides a flexible, 100% online schooling option that caters to K-12 students across multiple states.
• Differentiation in teaching methods is crucial in a virtual setting to cater to diverse learning styles and needs, helping ensure that each student receives the appropriate support.
• The transition to virtual education offers flexibility not just for students but for educators too, allowing them to find a teaching style that suits their personal needs and professional goals.
• Students can thrive in a virtual learning environment by receiving individualized support and having access to recorded lessons and flexible learning schedules.

Resources:

Pearson Connections Academy: https://www.connectionsacademy.com/

Thank you to our sponsor, IXL! Learn more: https://www.ixl.com/inclusive

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