The following words and phrases when used in this article shall have the meanings given to them in this section unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

“Account.” The Online Course Clearinghouse Account established under section 1502-L.¹

“Clearinghouse.” The central online clearinghouse established under section 1502-L.

“Department.” The Department of Education of the Commonwealth.

“Home education program.” A program conducted in compliance with section 1327.1.²

“Institution of higher education.” Any of the following:

“Nonpublic school.” A school, other than a public school, located within this Commonwealth where a Commonwealth resident may legally fulfill the compulsory school attendance requirements of this act and that meets the applicable requirements of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Public Law 88-352, 42 U.S.C. § 2000 et seq.).

“Online course.” A course of study that uses technology in order to provide a significant portion of its curriculum and to deliver a significant portion of instruction to students through the Internet or other electronic means. The term shall include all services and materials related to the course.

“Professional development course.” A course that uses technology to provide a professional educator with continuing professional education credits as required to maintain active certification under section 1205.2.⁶

“Provider.” An individual, nonprofit or for-profit organization, business, school entity or institution of higher education which has submitted one or more online courses or professional development courses to the department for inclusion in the clearinghouse established under this article.

“School entity.” A school district, charter school, regional charter school, cyber charter school, intermediate unit or area career and technical school.

“Secretary.” The Secretary of Education of the Commonwealth.