About the Algebra I Online Project

Welcome to Louisiana's Algebra I Online Project. This exciting pilot project, a part of the Louisiana Virtual School (LVS), is a Department of Education initiative that provides Louisiana students with a certified Algebra I instructor and with a high quality Algebra I curriculum through a web-based course.

Who does this project target?

The Algebra I Online Project targets rural and urban districts having schools with one or more sections of Algebra I which are taught by an uncertified mathematics teacher. In addition, districts desiring to provide certified teachers access to pedagogy training and mentoring in order to build capacity for strong mathematics instruction are eligible to participate.

What is required for a district to participate?

Schools and districts are provided with the high quality online curriculum, textbooks, workbooks and technology tools necessary for the course. There is no charge associated with participation the project; however, district and school responsibilities and commitments are required.

Districts must commit to providing the technical infrastructure needed to implement an online class for one or more sections of Algebra I. Each student participating in the project must have access to a multimedia computer connected to the Internet every day in class. The district must also identify a teacher assigned to the Algebra I course who is pursuing math certification and agree to provide limited release time for the participant to participate in professional development opportunities (1 day per quarter).

What help and support do the in-class teacher and students receive?

The in-class teacher must be committed to the project and serves an integral role as the site-based facilitator and co-instructor. A goal of the project is to provide the in-class teacher with (a) the opportunity to extend his/her knowledge of Algebra I and skills for teaching Algebra I and (b) the support/tools needed to facilitate the in-class algebra learning activities. Throughout this project the in-class teacher will be engaged in face-to-face and online professional development opportunities designed to (1) assist with the facilitation of the in-class Algebra I learning activities of the students, (2) build capacity for strong mathematics instruction, and (3) support the teacher's efforts towards secondary mathematics certification.

Students benefit by having two teachers (the certified online teacher and the in-class teacher) who will facilitate the in-class algebra learning activities. Students also utilize technologies, such as the graphing calculator, cbls/probes, digital tablet and pen, e-mail, etc.

Who are the online teachers? How were they selected?

The online teachers are Louisiana secondary certified mathematics teachers who were identified based on their outstanding teaching credentials. These teachers provide year-long instruction to students and support/mentor the in-class teacher throughout the year.

How does the coursework compare with traditional Algebra I courses?

Students should not expect that there will be less to do than in a traditional course. All LVS courses, including Algebra I, must adhere to the Louisiana standards, benchmarks, and grade level expectations. The nature of the online course is completely different from the traditional classroom environment. However, the Algebra I Online course offers appealing benefits. There is flexibility with scheduling and location, and the delivery of instruction can be provided via online, textbook, and/or electronic textbook.

What are the benefits to the district, school, and students?

There are several benefits to participating in the Algebra I Project. By participating:

• Districts/Schools will have a certified teacher providing online instruction to students.
• The in-class teacher receives support/mentoring throughout the project and participates in a strong professional development program (face-to-face and online) that will build capacity for strong mathematics instruction.
• Students have access to a high quality, technology-supported Algebra I course, developed by a team of outstanding mathematics educators.

How can I find out more about the project?

To find out more about the Algebra I Online project, or to view a demo lesson, contact Dianne Gauthier (dianne.gauthier@la.gov) at (225) 219-0442. You can also visit the project's website at http://www.louisianavirtualschool.net/?algebra.