HOW TO OPTIMIZE DISTANCE LEARNING THIS SCHOOL YEAR

The trend of remote learning has met much controversy in the days leading up to the start of the fall semester. Many concerned parents feel that their students are behind due to an insufficient and flawed pivot to virtual classrooms. With our new reality, and schools choosing hybrid or purely remote options, it’s not going to be perfect. To export remote learning on a scale such as this takes a lot of trial and error. It’s never been done before, so neither parents nor students should expect smooth sailing right away.

While some teachers and students are quickly adapting to learning online and being more independently motivated, others are having a more difficult time with the adjustment. And it’s to be expected, because face-to-face learning is most often the best. However, distance learning can be supplemented in order to feel more robust. If students are finding that they need extra support, we have a variety of suggestions to help them optimize this very particular school year.

Try these online resources

The good news about the Internet is that it’s home to millions of learning tools that have been developed by professionals and really work. These online resources include McGraw Hill, the textbook company offering a new suite of tools for students K-12, Khan Academy, and language-learning sites like DuoLingo.

Form a small study group

Students need to take the initiative to act together this year. While spending hours online in class can be tedious, it’s important for them to find some time for productive social interaction. Organizing a weekly study group with a few other students in the class can be a fun way to make sure everyone is on the same page and support each other outside of class.

Mimic a school schedule and make time for leisure

The most difficult aspect of the upcoming year for students experiencing distance learning is the tedious nature of staying in place all day. This means that taking breaks, getting outside and exercising will be increasingly important. We suggest that students try to mimic a typical school schedule in order to simulate the feeling of being in school, or even moving rooms or locations with every new class.

Take a screen break

Looking at screens all day is hard on the eyes and not to mention, exhausting. Sometimes cutting video and just listening will aid in concentration and give the eyes a well-deserved break. We also recommend listening to podcasts.

Seek help from a tutor

One of the most important things to remind your student is that just because they have to isolate, doesn’t mean they are alone. Help is still accessible if needed. Here at College Planning of Westchester, our tutors are adapting to effective, one-on-one, online teaching methods to boost students up during this very difficult year. 

Having an extra hand through distance learning this year could be just what your student needs. Give us a call to schedule a free consultation today!