The number of Oklahoma students getting their education through the internet is growing, and Sen. Gary Stanislawski wants to ensure the education those students are receiving is the same quality as what can be obtained in the classroom. Therefore, he has authored Senate Bill 604 creating a task force to study the efficiency of Internet-based instruction in Oklahoma.
"Internet-based instruction is a great alternative for many students that provides them with the opportunity to continue or finish their schooling from home when being in the classroom isn't an option," said Stanislawski, R-Tulsa. "Because of its tremendous popularity, we want to make sure that this type of instruction is just as beneficial and effective as traditional schooling as well as ensure accountability on the part of the students that they are doing the work that's required."
The task force, consisting of seven members, would review internet-based instruction programs offered throughout the state and make recommendations for any statutory or regulatory changes necessary to improve the accountability and effectiveness of Internet-based instruction. The findings would have to be submitted by November 10, 2009.
SB 604, which was requested by the United Suburban Schools Association, passed the Senate unanimously Tuesday and will next be heard in the House.
The Senate Education Committee approved a measure Monday to study the efficiency of Internet-based instruction in Oklahoma. Senate Bill 604, by State Sen. Gary Stanislawski, would create a task force to review such programs and make recommendations regarding necessary changes to ensure accountability for those in public schools.
“Internet-based instruction is becoming more and more popular for our middle and high school students. For many, because of time constraints or problems at school, it’s simply easier to get their school work done through this type of program,” said Stanislawski, R-Tulsa. “Because of its growing popularity, I want to ensure that these programs are providing just as good an education as is available in the classroom, and that there is accountability to make sure students are really doing the work they’re supposed to be doing.”
The task force would consist of seven members including the State Superintendent of Public Instruction and two district superintendents from districts that provide students with Internet-based instruction. The task force’s findings would have to be submitted by November 10, 2009. The report could include findings and recommendations for any statutory or regulatory changes necessary to improve the accountability, finding, and effectiveness of Internet-based instruction.
The United Suburban Schools Association requested the bill, which will now go before the full Senate for further consideration.
The number of Oklahoma students getting their education through the internet is growing, and Sen. Gary Stanislawski wants to ensure the education those students are receiving is the same quality as what can be obtained in the classroom. Therefore, he has authored Senate Bill 604 creating a task force to study the efficiency of Internet-based instruction in Oklahoma.
