Proximity Learning vs Fullmind: Virtual Teaching Services Compared

Proximity Learning and Fullmind (formerly known as iTutor) are some of the best-known virtual instruction platforms in the e-learning industry, and there are many similarities between the two companies:

• Both services offer virtual classes in core subjects along with other courses and services to help schools that are facing teacher shortages.
• Classes from these two firms are live rather than pre-recorded, giving learners the opportunity to engage with teachers and fellow students in real time.
• All Fullmind and Proximity Learning teachers are certified and experienced.
• All classes are taught on your school's bell schedule
• Class offerings are flexible. You can sign up for new classes or discontinue current ones as needed.

At the same time, there are some important differences between Proximity Learning and Fullmind that district administrators will want to be aware of in order to make informed staffing decisions.

Services

Proximity Learning offers virtual classes for K-12 students, summer classes, tutoring, special education classes, and special education case management.

Fullmind offers virtual classes in core subjects, tutoring, virtual suspension rooms, credit recovery services, test prep classes, and support for homebound students. It offers services to English Language learners as well as special education classes.

Classes

Proximity Learning specializes in providing brick and mortar schools with a huge selection of core classes and electives. It offers science, social studies, English language arts, and math classes for students from grades K-12. Its world language options include Latin, American Sign Language, French, German, Spanish, and Chinese. It has a huge selection of elective classes, including health, PE, art, drawing and painting, psychology, and theater. It offers ACT prep classes for high school students along with multiple AP classes. Furthermore, the company is adding new classes to its line-up on a regular basis. Student success is Proximity Learning's most important goal, and the company offers as many classes as it can to meet the needs of learners of all ages and walks of life.

Fullmind offers classes for grades K-12. It provides test prep services for standardized tests and the ACT and SAT. However, the company does not list its full class line-up on the company website. School districts have to fill out a contact form to find out which classes they can sign up for.

Video Conferencing Software

Fullmind states that their teachers use the school's curriculum and existing technology to provide live instruction and record student progress.

Proximity Learning uses Kahoot and Nearpod, interactive digital tools that make synchronous instruction engaging and fun. We use tools such as a digital whiteboard, screen-sharing capabilities, breakout rooms, and chat rooms to make it easy for learners to grasp key concepts, collaborate on group projects, improve their communication skills, and build community.

Experience

Proximity Learning is an industry pioneer. The company was founded in 2009 by Evan Erdberg, who has a background in educational technology and a passion for using that technology to promote educational equity and ensure each student has access to a high-quality education. Unlike many other e-learning companies that saw profitable opportunities in the wake of the COVID-19 lockdowns, Proximity Learning has been perfecting its teaching methods and delivery systems for many years to ensure all live instruction meets learner needs for academic progress and professional development.

Fullmind was founded in 2014 with the primary vision of providing a quality education to homebound students. Over the years, it added other services to its line-up, including credit recovery, tutoring, and test prep. Fullmind only started offering virtual staffing solutions to K-12 schools in 2020.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Virtual Staffing Solution

There are many factors to consider when choosing an online education platform. Some of the most important ones are:

• Can this service provide classes that are compliant with local and state standards?
• Does this company offer all the classes and services we need?
• Are classes synchronous? The online synchronous learning model is the best alternative to in-person instruction, as it allows students to communicate with a teacher and fellow learners in real time. Teachers can then use the immediate feedback to tailor the class to meet learner needs.
• Are the virtual teachers certified? Do they keep students engaged and make learning fun?
• What is the company's track record in the fields of student performance and student achievement? Are school districts and learners happy with the service?
• How much support does the company provide?
• Are services flexible? How long does the onboarding process take? How long will it take to change class schedules if new classes need to be added and/or current classes discontinued?

School districts should also bear in mind that investing in a good IT set-up is a must to ensure students who are taught virtually can focus on their classes and not on tech glitches. Good computers, microphones, and headphones help learners see and hear classes clearly. An internet connection with plenty of bandwidth makes it possible for multiple classes to take live classes simultaneously. Teacher's aides should be present in the classrooms to ensure good student behavior and sort out any tech problems that may arise during class.

Why Proximity Learning?

Many school districts looking for qualified teachers, engaging classes, multiple class options, and top-tier educational services are turning to Proximity Learning to fill staffing vacancies, and it's not hard to see why. Proximity Learning has the experience, expertise, and resources needed to provide learners with classes in core subjects, elective courses, tutoring, test prep, and summer school. The company does more than just fill vacancies; rather, it helps each learner gain access to the instruction he or she needs to become successful in the field of his or her choice.

If you're looking for quality virtual instruction on your school's bell schedule, contact us at your convenience to learn more about our services and start the onboarding process. We look forward to meeting your school's ever-changing needs.

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