The evolution of university learning is quickly moving toward hybrid formats, which combine in-person studies with online learning. The trend is accelerating, especially at Canadian universities, as advocates cite the accessibility benefits, flexibility, and technological integration of hybrid learning.
But where does that leave the average brick-and-mortar high school student with little to no experience learning online? Transitioning from a heavily monitored high school life to a flexible hybrid university experience is jarring for many.
That’s where online high school steps in. With its mix of structure and self-paced flexibility, online high schools like Ontario eSecondary School resemble a hybrid university approach. This article details how online high school learning—whether you take a full or partial course load—prepares you for the reality of modern post-secondary education.
Building Self-Discipline and Time Management Skills
The biggest transition students face to hybrid university learning is the shift toward self-guided learning. Professors require students to leverage their internal self-discipline and time management skills rather than be constantly told what to do.
Online high schools start this process early. They encourage self-guided studies that require students to be disciplined about their scheduling and shrewd with their time management. These skills align with university expectations for self-management.
Also, students manage diverse learning blocks at online schools—online lectures, study periods, group discussions, etc.—a practice that mirrors hybrid university courses.
Familiarity with Digital Tools and Learning Platforms
Online high school students familiarize themselves with online learning management systems: platforms that contain various resources, tests, communication portals, and so on. These learning management systems are similar to those at universities, like Canvas or Blackboard. Therefore, online high school students get a healthy head start learning how to interact with a modern university course.
Online high school students also practice digital collaboration with their peers and professors, navigating online group projects and communicating in digital spaces. They learn how to communicate professionally in virtual spaces through emails, discussion boards, and video calls (which professors love to see). They also practice how to articulate themselves as they participate in online discussions and debates.
Lastly, online high school students learn to use e-books, databases, and online libraries—tools they will regularly use in university.
Balancing Flexibility with Responsibility
One of the core skills online high school students learn is how to balance flexibility with responsibility. Incidentally, several incoming juniors have trouble with this skill (hence the saying, “sleep, party, study: pick two”).
Online high schools already teach students to build accountability into their educational lexicon by requiring them to balance academic deadlines with free time and set personal goals/priorities.
Mental Health Awareness and Wellbeing in a Digital Learning Environment
Lastly, online high school students get a head start managing healthy online learning habits. They learn quickly how to manage their screen time, take frequent breaks for fresh air, create ergonomic setups to protect their physical health, and create a network of friends/family/counselors to protect their mental health.
These self-protection mechanisms will be critical as they transition to hybrid university learning.
Online high school provides students with key competencies—self-discipline, digital literacy, adaptability, communication, and wellness awareness—that support a smooth transition to the university’s hybrid learning model.
Whether you take a few online courses in your senior year or ultimately transition to online high school, you can set yourself up for success in your post-secondary hybrid learning career.
Published by: Josh Tatunay
