States Take Action On Schools' Online Learning

By Dr. Marciene Mattleman

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - In all 50 states and the District of Columbia, online and blended learning opportunities exist for students, although all are different, according to the Evergreen Education Group.

Michigan was the first state to pass an online learning graduation requirement during the high school years for entering 8th graders. In Florida, those entering high school in 2011 must complete an online course before high school graduation.

Advocates for online learning cite its flexibility, permitting students to move at their own pace. However, seat time requirements, stipulating how much time a student must spend in a particular course to earn credit, thwart that flexibility.

New Hampshire was the first state to abolish a seat time requirement; mastery of content or seat time credits are allowed.

A law was passed in 2011 in New Mexico allowing students in failing schools to select alternatives to brick-and-mortar classes. Students' home districts fund that option.

Read more about legislative action by states 'Technology Counts,' published by Education Week.