Publishers, organizations, and non-profits have provided a wealth of materials, links, software, video tutorials, and products to support online learning in the wake of COVID-19. The outpouring of resources has been impressive, but sifting through these mass amounts of learning materials has left teachers (and parents) overwhelmed and fatigued.
Many experts say now is not the best time to switch over to new curriculums or learning materials. Experts also say that schools will have to pare back expectations. Teachers will not be able to take on too much right now, and neither will their students (Edweek, 2020).
If I had to pick 1 instructional component that would make a difference and be equitable for all students, I would pick read-aloud. Here are a few reasons to keep your read-aloud:
Teachers can provide the read aloud over a live web-call such as Zoom, or pre-record their lessons and share over Google docs, the SeeSaw App or other. Many publishers are being gracious during this time and giving permission for teachers to post their read-aloud lessons on a private URL.
(Click here to see publisher permissions.)
When your students (and you) have gotten comfortable with on-line learning, consider adding the book clubs. Remember that book clubs demand a level of independence from students that they may not yet be ready for “in the cloud”. Book clubs also require more management from the teacher (and the parent). There is no need to rush into book clubs. Wait until you have completed a read-aloud in the on-line learning environment before adding this layer.
Keep in mind, your students may not have access to books right now. With school libraries closed and public libraries closed, students may not have access to books. Connect students to resources, on-line or in their community. (Can we hand out books with the lunch sacks? Deliver books via bus routes?) 😀
Edweek recently reported that 41% of the schools in the US are not prepared to teach on-line due to a lack of technology in the schools and in the homes (2020). When selecting a platform for digital learning, keep in mind these realities.
Consider posting videos to a private Youtube page. This would allow students to watch lessons from a smartphone, tablet, or T.V. (as long as wi-fi is available).
Rather than have students complete notebook entries on the computer and send electronically, continue to allow students to complete assignments in a notebook. (The old fashioned way!) To turn in their assignments, simply have them take a picture of their completed work. Students can submit their photos via email or use an application such as SeeSaw. The SeeSaw app creates an on-line digital portfolio that allows for collaboration and feedback. Our new Reusable Notebook is the perfect tool!
During this time it is important to keep lessons, assignments, and activities closely matched to the classroom routines students are already accustomed to. It is also important to keep routines as simple as possible, with minimal reliance on technology. Doing so will increase equity and access.
Written by Sarah Collinge
Founder and President
ONLINE TUTORIALS:
For more information on teaching virtually, please read our blog post titled, The Ultimate Guide for Teaching Virtually (The C. I. A. Approach)