Thinking Ahead Helps In The Long Run (NAPSA)—When it comes to providing the best K-12 education for their children, parents may be advised to think ahead. Schools have a lot to offer but each student is different. Some may need enrichment, while others need remedial help to master an upcoming test or a difficult course. By thinking ahead, parents and teachers may be able to help students by taking advantage of the latest technologyusing online supplemental education programs. Some of these programs use a proven method of teaching—worksheets—delivered via the Internet,—which makes it a convenient and very affordable alternative to other tutoring programs. Programs such as that offered by MINDsprinting [www.mind sprinting.com] use printed worksheets that are completed by the student while off-line. The MINDsprinting program is unique in that the student takes an initial assessment test to identify the student's skill levels. With the results of this test the system tailors a program at the level appropriate for the student and then continues to assign lessons based on the student's performance. Consistent lesson and unit testing provide guidance through each unit, identifying the areas that require improvement and advancing students through skills they have mastered. It’s a method of teaching and learning based upon mastery learning theory, designed to promote comprehension rather than passive memorization. And as the program is tailored to the student’s needs, each one A self-paced program maybe best for some students. Now parents have anonline alternative. learns at their own pace—the pace that is right for that student. If the studentis struggling with a skill, additional “homework” on that skill is assigned. Or students seeking additional practice to reinforce mastered skills may opt to do a homework assignment. Real-time feedback is integral to the learning process for the student as well as the parents. Parents can access a detailed transcript report, each timetheylog in. This report can be used as a valuable tool for communication with teachers. Students have access to progress reports, bar charts, congratulatory messages, and printable achievement certificates. Students feel forward momentum and personal progress, thereby increasing their self-esteem. “Stars” are earned for successful completion of each lesson and can be redeemed for prizes at MINDsprinting’s online catalog. For more information, visit www.mindsprinting.com.
