Via Distance Educator, this story from Business Wire about one of our sponsored universities, Capella, teaming up with Florida Virtual School with a master's degree program focusing on educators who teach in 'virtual schools'.

In collaboration with Florida Virtual School (FLVS), Capella University has launched an innovative master's degree program with a focus on teaching in "virtual schools" -- educational organizations that offer courses over the Internet or through similar Web-based methods. The virtual school specialization aligns with national standards and incorporates new instructional techniques and teaching strategies for the steadily growing virtual classroom environment. Teachers, administrators and thought-leaders have identified these as critical tools for modern teacher-preparation programs.

"To develop this new master's degree specialization, we surveyed the education and teaching landscape to uncover the precise needs of today's teachers," said Michael J. Offerman, president, Capella University. "Our research showed that a majority of teachers often feel ill-prepared to deal with the challenges of today's classroom, including virtual learning environments. Collaborating with Florida Virtual School, we're proud to offer this expanded online teaching and learning specialty."

Capella University's new six-course virtual school focus includes: Instructional Strategies, Technology Skills, Assessment Strategies, and Communications Skills for virtual school teachers, as well as Social Issues and Virtual School Teaching and a practicum in Advanced Classroom Instruction. Aligned with the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS), the new program will be delivered online by doctoral faculty who are both K-12 scholars and practitioners.