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E-Learning in All Shapes and Sizes

Experts emphasize the importance of understanding the various models of virtual education.

One way to distinguish between the wide variety of virtual schools and online-learning programs available is by the type of entity that oversees their operation and control. That source of authority can determine how many students can enroll, where those students come from, and what resources are available for teaching and learning.

Most virtual schools or online programs are operated by a university or college, through a district, by a consortium of stakeholders, through a state entity, by a for-profit company, or as charter schools.

Figuring out the advantages and challenges of each form of operational control depends largely on what state the school or program is located in, observers of the field say. Different states generally have different laws regarding how schools—virtual as well...