DSIS

ts continue their education at colleges and universities while other students move directly into jobs and careers. Independent study is an alternative instructional methodology to traditional classroom instruction and is consistent with the Davis Joint Unified School District’s course of study. Independent study is not an alternative curriculum. Rather, DSIS provides individual students with a choice of ways to acquire the values, skills, and knowledge that all students should gain. The DSIS alternative instructional methodology involves an instructional strategy that responds to an individual’s needs and style of learning. Independent study can be part of, separate from, or in addition to a regular classroom program. A written agreement, valid for up to one school year at a time, is completed by the certificated teacher as the general instructional supervisor. The agreement is reviewed by the student, and if a minor, by his or her parent or guardian and any other person who may be directly involved in the student’s learning program. The written agreement sets educational objectives and addresses activities and personnel involved, resources to be used, and a method to evaluate successful completion of the agreement. The agreement must adhere to the school district policy and state legal requirements. Instruction through independent study:
Allows the student to study at his or her own pace within the limits of compulsory attendance requirements. Challenges each student to excel in his or her area of special interest and abilities. Provides an alternative for students to achieve competency and mastery of basic skills. Allows children to be educated at home. Encourages the student to be resourceful. Facilitates the student’s active participation in his or her own education. Offers real flexibility in the design of an educational program. Offers educational choices to students and families. Enrollment in independent study must be a voluntary choice made by the student and parent. Attendance records are based on a student’s work within the terms and conditions of his or her written agreement and not on traditional “seat time.” Therefore, each student must be motivated to study on his or her own as prescribed by the agreement. These are essential components for a student’s progress and educational success.