For some students in rural Newfoundland and Labrador, computer monitors and modems are playing as much a part of their education as chalk and blackboards.

The Centre for Distance Learning and Innovation, which offers high school courses online, said the number of students signing up for online classes has been steadily climbing.

Director Jim Tuff said about 500 students signed up for online classes in 2002. He expects that number to double by next school year.

"Our number of students next year will be highest to date, which will be around 1,150 students, taking a total of 1,900 course registrations," said Tuff.

Online education is becoming an asset in rural schools, where enrolments have been steadily declining for years. While city schools have also been affected by the trend, some smaller communities are at particular risk in the wake of the collapse of most fisheries.

Out of 138 schools in the province, 106 will offer courses such as math and English online this September.

Cindy Fleet, director of education for the Labrador School Board, said because classroom numbers in her district are continuing to shrink, online courses are becoming an integral part of the education system.

"We have [kindergarten to Grade 12] schools with 43 students, or 100 students," said Fleet.

"It's absolutely crucial to deliver a balanced education because otherwise, students would have to leave their communities."

Students in some northern Labrador schools are taking as many as five high school courses online.

However, the Centre for Distance Learning and Innovation recommends that students take no more than three online classes at a time, because the workload can become too heavy.