I have worked with many teachers during the lockdown supporting them to deliver online learning and have been impressed by the adaptability of some teachers. Some teachers who had functional class sites transitioned quickly into the distance learning space picking up quickly on using Google Meets to connect with their class or groups. Some teachers had a very steep learning curve but they got there and were very proud of what they could do in a very short time. They were ready for April 15th when term 2 started.
As we moved through the weeks there was a whole lot of 'expert' advice coming from all directions. It was overwhelming. Teachers needed to be very secure in their belief in themselves, that they knew their students well, knew the curriculum and knew what the learners needed next.
A lot of the teachers I talked to were very conscious that 'hauora' was the number one consideration. They knew some learners and their parents were anxious for a variety of reasons. So they knew that by making regular contact and communications this would support those at home. And they did it with style and grace. Daily videos were created with the unique style and personality of the teacher shining through.
Ann Milne in her work about culturally sustaining pedagogies posted this on her blog recently and it struck me as good set of questions for teachers to reflect on.
Engage whānau. Engage learners. Let's ask them how online learning and distance learning was for them. Let's rethink what we do and make the changes while we have this opportunity to do so.
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| from Colouring in your VIRTUAL White Spaces - Ann Milne |
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