Setting Students Up for Success in an Online Learning Environment: Part Deux
An Experiment on a Grand Scale
One podcast from NPR recently called it “The biggest distance-learning experiment in history.” This is not just hyperbole. In the United States alone as of March 27th, only Maine and Iowa have not issued a statewide directive to close schools. In most cases, where schools are closed, distance learning is taking place. This has never been done so quickly and on such a mass scale as what we are seeing right now. It is, frankly, awe-inspiring. Thankfully, available resources are getting more plentiful and sophisticated as we all participate in this experiment. Students, families, and educators need as much support as possible to navigate our new reality.
Students and Families
Here are a few resources for students and families that our fantastic school counseling department recently shared with the school community:
An example of a Daily Schedule geared toward the “big picture” - it’s not just about schoolwork! Here is a blank template to make your own.
Here is a simple Homework/Daily Planner - free to copy and use.
We must also recognize that the COVID-19 pandemic brings with it stressors we have not experienced in generations, particularly with a shift to online instruction that wasn’t possible 20 years ago, let alone in 1918, a time period that has received much attention lately. The good news is that there are so many more mental health resources for adolescents and families today. Check them out, and don’t be shy to ask for help if you need it.
Supporting Teachers
Educators need support, too. One social media post I saw stated that educators “Apollo-13’d” the problem by switching to online instruction so quickly. I agree with this sentiment and laud the dedication of our educators nationwide. They are answering the call. But the novelty of online instruction will quickly wear off. It will get harder to deliver quality instruction without the face-to-face interactions and relationships our students need to be successful. Leadership is needed now more than ever to support educators as they potentially prepare for an extended period of distance learning.
Here is just one example (from the National Council of Teachers of English) of “…resources and activities that may help those suddenly faced with teaching online.”
Over the last few weeks I have seen schools and individual staff members sharing so many great resources. It’s inspiring, to say the least.
What are your go-to planning and self-care resources as distance learning continues?