Doing remote learning right (amid Covid19) - 3 key strategies for parents & educators

Everyone’s turning to learning from home. But there’s a big difference between distance learning (the term used by officials) and effective remote learning.

And let’s face it, we can all learn remotely from our homes but the power is in digital. We know; we’ve been doing this since its inception. So, whether you call it distance learning, remote learning, digital learning or online learning, how can you harness its power?

1)         Strike a balance – Kids, whether they’re three or 23 – aren’t up for a 45-minute video or lecture. They have short attention spans (shorter than we ever had). And they need engagement. Instead, think in six-minute increments followed by a related activity or worksheet.

2)         Find alternative programming online -- If you’re a parent, consider finding a video or class online. Use downtime to keep your kids learning while you can be freed-up to be productive (OK, slightly). Search for classes or videos from experts on such topics as science (planets, atmosphere, oceans) or music (Beethoven, Bach) or even biographies of notable people. Put this additional learning on the day’s schedule. Have your child watch and follow the curriculum or answer questions you supply. For example: What was the main point? What did you take away? If you were that scientist, how would you have tried to solve the problem? Yes, put your teachers’ hat on: “Honey, go deep, explain with examples or backup. I can’t wait to see what you write.”

3)         Build in socialization – Everyone needs social connectivity. And kids can really learn from each other. In our live Academy, we incorporate socialization and interaction throughout. For example, every class begins with “around the room” where each girl shares their learning from that week’s “Bringback” (aka homework assignment).  “Lisa, what kind of feedback did you get on your business idea?” the coach asks. This interaction is key throughout a live, online class of any length. 

Live, online ‘office hours’ is another way to allow kids to connect with an educator and learn from each other. Parents could even schedule in these live “recesses” or group gatherings. Remember, you may want to guide the discussion or watch out… they’ll turn to the games…

Jennifer Openshaw is Founder & CEO of the non-profit Girls With Impact, a modern business and innovation academy for NextGen women leaders, for girls grades 7-12. She's appeared on Oprah and CNBC's Power Lunch and hosted her own PBS show. Is there a girl in your life?

To ease the burden of working families during #covid19 the Girls With Impact spring cohort is now free and all live & online. Register now at https://buff.ly/3a4eyaU

#news #coronavirus #togetherathome #distancelearning