It is my hope that you are all staying sane and healthy. These are difficult times.
YouTube check in Remote Learning #2
Many folks have asked me about what is going on. I can tell you that Mr. Uslu on behalf of CSAD, made recommendations to superintendents last week. They will, in turn, work with your school principals and APA’s to develop working plans. This will ensure that the requirements of your states are being met as things change related to remote learning as well as the platforms you are using. However, I am here to support you in any way that I am able.
For background, I wanted you to know that I have past experience with tutoring many students at night and on weekends online, as well as currently supporting the work of a 7-year-old in my house who is learning remotely via Google. I have become much more skilled with online learning should you need to talk about issues as they come up.
Here are my suggestions:
- Expect directions from your schools – principals, and APA”s
- Check Concept English updates made weekly in folder – color coded
- Balance your check ins with students – social and emotional needs with instructional earning
- Follow the curriculum unit outlines in SIS – smaller learning outcomes
- Reach out for help whenever you need it – even if you aren’t sure
Concept English Remote Learning Folder
https://drive.google.com/file/d/16I7koHiT-1B9z7wuIfcy2V1qcNaWjXUP/view?usp=sharing
Additional Thoughts – Habits of Mind
The March edition of Educational Leadership has an article (Dispositions by Design – Costa) that reminded me of what I have been working on my whole career. You may find it interesting and useful now. It says, “Voices both within and outside of schools are calling for a more expansive and innovative brand of education that will prepare students with the capabilities to think critically, demonstrate creativity and imagination, communicate effectively using various media, work collaboratively with others, and self-direct their own life-long learning.” This is not only timely, but also pokes at the heart of one of our biggest problems – how do we motivate students remotely and know they are engaged?
About twelve years ago, working with colleges, we determined, the biggest obstacle to success in college was students’ “habits of mind.” Dispositions by Design from Educational Leadership, confirms our work: “Habits of mind should be developed over time through deliberate practice… Ultimately, we want students to be asking these questions of themselves, without prompting.” It seems to me that this is what we are facing and should be our goal moving forward
The article makes it clear, as we all know as English teachers, that helping students consider essential questions (chart in article) is key:
“When confronted with conflicts, challenges, or problematic situations, efficacious human beings ask themselves, “What is the most thoughtful action I can take right now?”
I would ask this question as I plan any learning right now.
Please know you are not alone. Stay safe and healthy.
