Course Information FAQs

 

What courses are available through MOCAP?

The MOCAP catalog contains a comprehensive list of all courses offered by MOCAP providers. There are course options for students in grades K-12.

 

How do students know they are taking the right course(s)?

Students and families interested in the MOCAP program should work with their schools to determine the best courses for the individual student. District or charter school counselors and administration can help ensure course selections meet local graduation requirements, and that the student has the prerequisite skills needed for the course. Please visit the Missouri Graduation Handbook to view the minimum state requirements for graduation as of September 2019. Students taking more than two MOCAP courses must have an Individualized Learning Plan (ILP). For high school students this will be the Individual Career and Academic Plan (ICAP).

 

What does it mean if a course is synchronous or asynchronous?

Synchronous learning happens in real time, with the teacher and students present together during the learning. This can be accomplished using video conferencing, live chat, or instant messaging. Asynchronous learning is when teachers post materials and learners work through assignments on a flexible schedule. This is can be accomplished using audio and video clips or written material. There are pros and cons to each approach, and depending on the individual student and situation, one may be more appropriate. Students are encouraged to discuss with their counselor which type of learning environment would be best for them. 

Are MOCAP courses available for summer school?

LEAs may elect to use virtual and/or electronic programs or other methods to deliver academic content during the summer school session. Teacher assignment/certification and MOSIS reporting with virtual/electronic courses must be in accordance with the guidelines set forth in Exhibit 34 of DESE’s Core Data/MOSIS Manual. MOCAP courses are available in an LEA’s summer school session. Please note that under the MOCAP statute, there is no provision for open enrollment, so any offerings are restricted to resident students only. The MOCAP enrollment window and summer term dates are determined by the LEA. Department requirements ensure that all MOCAP courses are in alignment with state standards and statute.

 

Can a school district or charter school offer virtual courses that are not part of MOCAP?

Local school districts and charter schools may offer virtual learning options through arrangements outside of MOCAP. Any virtual coursework claimed for state aid must meet the requirements of Section 162.1250, RSMo. Even if the district or charter school offers courses outside of MOCAP (locally developed or through contracts with vendors) MOCAP enrollment must also be made available to eligible students. Enrollment requests from students and parents may include a specified provider.

 

Can a school develop their own virtual classes?

LEAs are responsible to assure that locally-developed virtual classes are aligned with the Missouri Learning Standards, comply with state requirements for teacher certification, and ensure the following standards from Section 162.1250, RSMo are satisfied:  

 

  1. The virtual course or virtual program utilizes appropriate content-specific tools and software.
  2. Orientation training is available for teachers, instructors, and students as needed.
  3. Privacy policies are stated and made available to teachers, parents/guardians, and students.
  4. Academic integrity and Internet etiquette expectations regarding lesson activities, discussions, electronic communications, and plagiarism are stated to teachers, instructors, and students prior to the beginning of the virtual course or virtual program.
  5. Computer system requirements, including hardware, web browser, and software, are specified to participants.
  6. The virtual course or virtual program architecture, software, and hardware permit the online teacher or instructor to add content, activities, and assessments to extend learning opportunities.
  7. The virtual course or virtual program makes resources available by alternative means, including but not limited to, video and podcast.
  8. Resources and notes are available for teachers and instructors in addition to assessment and assignment answers and explanations.
  9. Technical support and course management are available to the virtual course or virtual program teacher and school coordinator.
  10. The virtual course or virtual program includes assignments, projects, and assessments that are aligned with students' different visual, auditory, and hands-on learning styles.
  11. The virtual course or virtual program demonstrates the ability to effectively use and incorporate subject-specific and developmentally appropriate software in an online learning module.
  12. The virtual course or virtual program arranges media and content to help transfer knowledge most effectively in the online environment.