Making the Most of Online Schooling
None of us expected this, but it’s here. Just a couple of weeks ago, your kids were spending their days at school attending their regular classes; now they’re home all day, watching video lectures and doing online assignments. With all schools in Washington closed until at least April 24th, online learning has become the new reality.
Nothing is quite the same as in-person instruction. However, we are lucky to live in a time with technology that can bring virtual schooling pretty darn close. Each school has its own approach to online learning, using a variety of mediums that combine video lessons, chat rooms, and digital assignments. Regardless of exactly what system your student’s school is implementing, the home learning environment you set up can make a huge impact on your child’s online learning success.
Follow these simple guidelines to make the most of online schooling:
Create a dedicated learning space.
Choose a spot in the house that can function as your student’s work area, whether it be the desk in your child’s room, one end of the kitchen table, or the home office. Make sure that necessary supplies such as paper, pencils, textbooks, calculator, and computer charger are nearby and that there is adequate space for both the student’s computer and their paper/pencil on the table or desk.
Make a schedule.
Children and teens thrive on structure, even if they initially resist it. Sit down with your student and collaboratively determine a daily routine that fits everyone’s needs. In addition to time for schoolwork, you can incorporate time for independent reading or online math games, physical activity, and breaks!
Take advantage of resources.
Many schools and teachers are setting up optional ways for students to seek additional support including video office hours, discussion rooms, and email questions. Encourage your student to leverage these opportunities for more direct contact with educators. It will help minimize their reduction in learning and ensure that they’re getting all of their questions answered!
Focus on the positive.
While no one was hoping for this situation, we can always find some benefits. This required shift to virtual learning:
(1) forces schools to try new educational technologies that can provide additional options for future learning beyond the pandemic
(2) encourages children and teens to learn to better navigate a variety of technologies that will be essential to their future education and workforce involvement
(3) empowers students to become independent learners and practice managing their time and assignments