Introduction
Affected by the pandemic, most schools closed and teachers and students have to start distance education this year. Compared with adult education, children education is more affected. Since human beings need to socialize, and schools are the main social places for students, schools and other public places closed makes students lose this communication. Even though online education has many advantages, it lacks a sense of formality and authenticity I think. Especially for children who are forced to stay away from the classroom, educators should pay attention to the psychological pressure they receive.
Fortunately, I’ve seen more webinars and teacher blog posts supporting a trauma-informed and compassionate approach to welcoming students back (remotely or in person). I heard from my friends that they have had students at their school since last week (vulnerable learners have been attending since the middle of May, but only twice a week for 2 hours). Lots of these children just want to talk, and so many need and want hugs but cannot receive them. As remote learning becomes the “new normal” while this pandemic lasts, there will be more disconnection and greater anxiety these kids face. Fortunately, according to my classmate said who is a teacher in Kamloops, the BC government has been sharing trauma informed practice and sel-based tools (https://www.traumasensitiveschoolkit.com/) to help us all navigate these troubles times together.
It is also one of the negative of online learning. The positive thing is that online learning can eliminate distance restrictions, which is one of the main reasons for the existence of home education. Therefore, it provides a method to those family who cannot enjoy the high educational resources due to geographical reason.
Hi Yuye,
I agree with you that for young children, online learning lacks authenticity. I know children who go to a private school and the school has burdened students with work rather than putting children’s emotional well being first. Parents are under more pressure to ensure students understand and complete the work. Students at this particular school are not trying to understand the material but rather just finish it to make their parents and teachers happy. During these times, teachers must put their students’ and their families emotional well being before the curriculum.
It is awful! Yes, children and their parents suffer huge stress in this period. Although teachers and administrators also have to catch the original course progress, they should consider the acceptability and resiliency of students.