In some cases, in part-time programs and usually in the BOOST program, the VLC program design is complemented by correspondence courses from the Correspondence Learning Network (VLN) service from K-12, like EBUS, the VLN, Self-Learner, etc., and from Thompson Rivers University (TRU) for the post-secondary level.
The content of these courses is taught in an engaging way to each student one-to-one, using
the principles outlined in the program design. The student then prepares the send-in activities independently. The work is objectively marked by an outside marker assigned by the distance education system. In this way students achieve their credentials, which may be used towards whatever diploma they are working on. As well, and most importantly, they learn the ‘how to learn and how to perform’ strategies and techniques (see Learning to Learn for future successful performance outcomes).
Performance Outcomes
Because students are taught the course content in the way they learn best, grades for these courses are outstanding, usually well beyond what students have been able to achieve in any other academic situation.
Math 10, 11 and 12 and English 11 and 12 and Senior Science are courses that are commonly taken part time. It is often the case that students who are intellectually bright enough to go on to post-secondary instruction are challenged by their long-term difficulties to succeed in these subjects in a school classroom. They have difficulty getting a good enough grade to enter the institution of their choice. BOOST students choose from the wide array of courses offered either in on-line or paper format.
School Collaboration
If the student is participating in a public or private school-based program, or a distance education program, a special effort is made to collaborate with their current teachers or contact person. This is particularly important if the student already has an IEP, since the principles outlined by their school are fully integrated to their lessons and a plan of collaborative action is undertaken.
If the child is attending public or private school on site, VLC’s signature week-ahead program, which previews one-to-one difficult subject material ahead of the learner’s classmates, makes classroom learning much more successful. It increases confidence and emotional well-being for the learner.
Regardless of the school situation, VLC teachers have the materials, resources, knowledge and experience to work with each learner in a dynamic, proactive way that enhances their educational journey.