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FAQ: Global High School Online Courses

Frequently Asked Questions


When can I enroll?
Independent study courses are available year round. Online group courses are being offered seasonally. Each course runs 12 weeks. Registration for each group course begins a few weeks prior to its start date.
What is a Learning Consultant?
A Learning Consultant is a SelfDesign-trained teacher whose main role is to work in cooperation with the learner and family to support and help account for learning. The Learning Consultant (LC) does this through the collaborative creation of an individual Learning Plan, through weekly contact with youth both individually and in small groups, and through development of a learner-created portfolio to document work done both independently and through mentor-led courses. When learners enroll in two or more courses, Learning Consultants will be assigned to them.
How is a Learning Consultant different than a Mentor?
A Mentor is a course leader with expertise in the subject matter of the course. A Learning Consultant is a SelfDesign-trained teacher who works with the learner and family to develop a learning plan and supports the learner in the implementation and documentation of the learning accomplished.
What makes these online courses different than more traditional approaches?
SelfDesign Global High School courses are unique in that we are offering a focus on holistic learning, learner centeredness and flexibility for how learners master the skills and concepts outlined in the course descriptions. Specifically, in enrolling in one or more SelfDesign Global High School courses all learners can expect:
  • To discover that their opinions, ideas, and (unique) intelligences will be welcomed and encouraged
  • To engage with fellow learners and course mentors in a self-respecting, progressive and positive environment
  • To participate in a learning environment where questioning, inquiry, self-responsibility, self-determination, self-awareness and openness (to new ideas, especially) are emphasized and encouraged to receive the invaluable support of one-on-one mentoring toward their learning goals
Can I study a subject on my own?
Yes, there are independent study options available. for more information about mentor availability for your course idea.
Can I earn credit for an independent study?
Yes, you can earn credit for an independent study. As part of the learning process, a learner and mentor will co-create the course outcomes, develop a resource list, identify how the learner will demonstrate what he or she has learned and establish the criteria for assessment.
Who will facilitate the courses?
Every course is facilitated by a mentor who is a certified teacher with an expertise in that subject matter.
How will my work be assessed?
Portfolio review is the primary assessment method used in our courses. However, in some courses an end of course exam is an option.
How long are the courses?
Online Courses are offered in Seasonal Semesters, over a duration of 12 weeks. Individual learners who wish to take courses independent of a learning group and semester can register for specific courses and work at an individual pace with support of a mentor. *

* Dependent upon the availability of mentors.
What are the tech requirements for the courses?
Learners need access to a computer and the Internet. After course enrollment is confirmed, learners will receive guidance in accessing course materials and interacting with course mentors and classmates. Learners will require a (free) Skype account to participate in online discussion. Visit the Skype site to set up an account.
Who can enroll in SelfDesign Global High School Online Courses?
Learners from around the world between the ages of 14-18 can enroll in SelfDesign Global High School Online Courses. Naturally, learners will need to have mastered certain prerequisite material prior to taking some of the courses. Please talk to one of our enrollment counselors if you have questions about this.
What are SelfDesign Global High School Courses?
SelfDesign Global High School Online Courses are inquiry based, high school courses written by SelfDesign Global High School staff from a holistic, peace-centered perspective. All courses are flexible, learner centered and offer learners the opportunity to own their learning. They are applicable toward high school graduation and give learners the opportunity to demonstrate their mastery of the skills and concepts in ways that reflect their strengths.
Why enroll in SelfDesign Global High School Online Courses?
SelfDesign Global High School courses offer the best of both worlds to the online learner. Learners are offered the opportunity to participate in inquiry based online courses in either a group or independent study environment. Learners can choose to work with a group and a mentor in our seasonally offered courses or complete courses independently working solely with a mentor.
What courses are being offered?
We offer a full list of courses in seasonal semesters via online learning groups over a 12 week period, with the guidance and support of a certified teacher/mentor. Individual learners can register in any course, at any time, and will receive the support of a certified teacher/mentor. In addition, learners may also design their own independent study courses in collaboration with a teacher/mentor.
Do I have to be online at any given time?
If a learner is working through courses independently, there is no set time requirement to be online, other than mutually agreed upon ways of communicating with the mentor. However, if a learner chooses to enroll in a course with a group component, there will be live group discussions using Skype. Please note that Skype is a free downloadable program.
Can I work at my own pace?
When taking courses independent of a learning group, learners can work at their own pace. All courses must be completed within a year of starting.
How many courses can be taken at any one time?
Since each course will require about 5 to 8 hours of time per week, we recommend four to five courses per 12 week semester. If you are new to online learning, it is probably a good idea to start with one or two courses.
What about courses that are Canadian specific?
Global learners are welcome to take any of the courses; however, some are Canadian specific, such as Social Studies 10 and 11 and First Nations. Global learners will have the opportunity to substitute content specific to their locales in these courses.

Note: British Columbia residents must register for courses
at the SelfDesign High - British Columbia home page.

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