By Deborah Kline, Ed.S.
For those embarking on another adventure in virtual learning. While it can be scary – and, let’s face the reality, it’s not ideal for every student – there are ways to make the most of this season. For those back on the virtual track, I am blogging a 3 part series on making virtual learning environments successful from both a virtual teacher and parent’s perspective.
I personally ventured into the world of virtual teaching as a piano teacher about 3 years ago when a student moved to California then back to Florida. Only missing the two weeks when she physically moved across the country, the student’s skill development continued to progress, completely unhindered by the disruptions – all thanks to virtual technology. Inspired by the experience, I integrated the platform into my regular studio routine, offering and honing hybrid and virtual lessons.
Through trial and error over the years, I have compiled some key elements in making virtual learning more positive and productive. More recently, I have adapted them to the virtual school platform as well. Most ideas are based on research, and all from experience. In this part one of the Virtual Learning series, I delve into creating positive perspectives.
First, Let Go of Expectations and Previous Frustrations
Spring of 2020 we were thrown into a completely new learning environment. Few of us, if any, were prepared. It was the end of the school year, and we were all “done” to begin with. Everyone was frustrated.
This schoolyear, teachers have had 4 months to adjust, hone, and develop more effective methods. While it does still feel like a bit of a roller coaster of unknowns, teachers have adjusted – and will continue to innovate. Teachers are some of the most brilliant, creative people in society. Combined with true servant hearts, teachers will do whatever it takes to make sure your child is safe and learning. Trust their professionalism!
Toss out any expectations because we honestly do not know what this year will look like. Your home virtual learning environment will not be the same as the school – and that’s ok! Change is never easy – and it brings some worries – but change can also birth some incredible innovations. Embrace a lifestyle of looking for learning discrepancies then brainstorm and problem-solve with your child’s teacher to improve. From workspaces, to motivating learning, to managing behaviors – we’ve never entered a season such as this, and all of it will be trial and error. Before long, you and your child’s teacher will find your new groove!
Maybe you’re like me and 2019-20 4th quarter was pretty rough. It’s easy to revert back the fear that this year will be as frustrating. Together, let’s get rid of expectations based on last year’s experiences: it is a new year. Embrace the opportunity with optimism as a time to grow and try new things!
Next, Consider the Positives and Possibilities
Students learn a plethora of wonderful skills through virtual schooling – many of which are preparing them for college and careers. When it gets tough and the inner voice of complaining creeps in, stop and remember the invaluable skills the virtual platform provides.
Students learn time management. Students, more than any time in modern history, now have to figure out how to plan their day, learning, and time to make sure assignments get done. As parents will have to guide them through that process; however, don’t be surprised if even your 2nd grader starts to do some of that on his or her own in a matter of days or weeks. Developing time management and independent learning is a process – an invaluable skill for life success.
Students learn self-correction. Without the teacher right there to make corrections for them, students have to do the physical process of erasing and correcting. Students often become too dependent on the teacher to help them fix their mistakes, this season is an opportunity for students to learn how to correct themselves. We all learn most from fixing our mistakes.
Students develop stronger metacognitive skills. Metacognitive skills are the “thinking about thinking” skills. Students often look at school for what to think, especially in the younger grades. Virtual learning is an opportunity for students to learn how to think about their learning. Modeled by teachers and parents at first, students have to develop their own ways of organizing study, processing new information, and creating tools for information recall.
Students are becoming familiar with computer programs and the internet. Computer skills are undeniably crucial for the emerging workforce. Students in the virtual environment are learning to navigate a wide variety of programs, online communication methods, and even research. All skills which future employers will value for decade(s) to come.
Students will be more college-ready. One of the biggest factors keeping students from attending college is the need to work to financially support the family. With the increasing availability of online classes, coupled with students who are becoming increasingly more competent in the platform, I am optimistic we will see more students attending college in the future while also working jobs because of these early online learning experiences.
Parents become stronger advocates. Now more than ever, parents are acutely aware of their children’s learning needs. Seize this opportunity to understand what your child is learning and fully partner with your child’s teacher(s). Communicate with the teacher frequently (in a positive “we’re in this together” way), let the teacher know what’s working and what’s not working. While there probably won’t be “one-size-fits-all” solution, feedback helps teachers adjust to meet the needs of more students. If the teacher is teachable, as most are, he or she will work with you to create sustainable, effective solutions for both your child and the rest of the class.
The theme of the year is grace – for your child, your child’s teacher, and yourself. Yes, you will have to be more involved, but in the grand scheme of life – this is just a season. One day we will be past all of this and will miss the time we were all growing and learning together. My parents homeschooled my sister and I for 3 years – to this day, all of us reminisce that season as being our absolute favorite together.
Make it an amazing year together!
Look for Part 2 coming soon: Creating an effective virtual learning workspace.
References
Achieve. (2004). Ready or not: Creating a high school diploma that counts. Retrieved from http://www.achieve.org/files/ReadyorNot.pdf
Conley, D. T. (2007, March). Redefining college readiness. Retrieved from https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED539251
Conley, D. T. (2013). Getting ready for college, careers, and the Common Core: What every educator needs to know. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.
Fullan, M. (2011). Change leader: Learning to do what matters most. San Francisco, CA: John Wiley & Sons.
Schmuck, R., Bell, S., & Bell, W. (2012). The handbook of organization development in schools and colleges: Building regenerative change (5th ed.). Santa Cruz, CA: Exchange Pointe International (EPI).
Deborah Kline, EdS 