As I've browsed through various websites and teacher resources, I've come to the conclusion that distance learning is just about anything that we can prepare and send home to our kids, either through paper or electronic means.
I've had a buyer, of one of my PDF resources, share a creative way that she turned the resource into a lesson for her students at home. It seems that it just takes a little determination and ingenuity to create meaningful educational resources for our kids.
Distance learning doesn't mean learning stops. It just means that it takes place differently. I can't say that I like it, but I know we have to make the best of it.
Distance learning doesn't mean learning stops. It just means that it takes place differently. I can't say that I like it, but I know we have to make the best of it.
The hardest part (for me) is giving instructions that I know all of my kids will understand. There is nothing more frustrating than to have a student not able to understand the assignment. They are frustrated because they don't get it. Parents are frustrated because they can't explain it. I'm frustrated because I can't be there to teach them. It can be a vicious cycle.
I've also discovered that distance learning is time consuming. It takes me at least three times longer to create a lesson.
I've also discovered that distance learning is time consuming. It takes me at least three times longer to create a lesson.
It reminds me of planning for a substitute. Every little detail must be spelled out. Instructions must be clear and in language a little person can read and understand. Pictures must be made to accompany directions.
Not only does this take lots of extra time and thought, it takes tons of printer ink. Go digital you say. This isn't an option so.... back to the printer...
One thing I have discovered to be invaluable (and yes, it is digital) for distance learning are Boom Cards. I've always thought they were awesome with their bright colors and engaging format and teacher feedback. But now, they are better than awesome.
One thing I have discovered to be invaluable (and yes, it is digital) for distance learning are Boom Cards. I've always thought they were awesome with their bright colors and engaging format and teacher feedback. But now, they are better than awesome.
They no longer are only used to support or reinforce a lesson, they have become a great tool for helping kids to learn at home. And they are inexpensive.
However long this lasts, I know that we'll all continue to make the best of it. We'll keep creating lessons for our kids and finding ways to connect. And everyday we get a little closer to putting this behind us (I hope and pray).
(For more of Kim Frencken's writing and informational about her educational products, check out her blog, Chocolate For the Teacher.)
However long this lasts, I know that we'll all continue to make the best of it. We'll keep creating lessons for our kids and finding ways to connect. And everyday we get a little closer to putting this behind us (I hope and pray).
(For more of Kim Frencken's writing and informational about her educational products, check out her blog, Chocolate For the Teacher.)
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