COVID-19 is currently putting the education system to the test by forcing face-to-face learning environments to quickly move online. As an educator who has implemented online instruction both as an elementary teacher and private tutor, here are a few recommendations in an effort to help make the transition from face-to-face learning to online modalities efficient and effective.
Must-Do/Can-Do Daily Overview
I created a simple Must-Do/Can-Do document a fews years back to support distance learning for both third and fourth graders; however, this document could be modified for all ages. The video linked below will explain how this can be used during home instruction. Video – Click Here
Click here to make a copy for use – Must-Do/Can-Do
Live & Pre-Recorded Lessons
- Consider making short recordings instead of typed messages. Seeing your face and hearing your voice can be reassuring in an unsettling time.
- Whenever possible, offer live video chats or lessons. I have used both Google Hangouts and Zoom. Zoom has enhanced collaboration features, one-click content sharing, real-time co-annotation, and digital whiteboarding.
- If you can’t be live, try providing your students with pre-recorded lessons using Screencastify, Loom, Zoom. A positive aspect of pre-recorded lessons are they allow students to learn at their own pace
- Have students make videos using Screencastify, Loom, or Flipgrid to demonstrate their understanding of a topic. They could even make videos to support their classmates who need help.
Parental Advocacy in Education 