Educator tips

  • 5 minutes

Use these tips to help your students transition into a new way of learning. Things won't always go smoothly, but by working together and setting clear expectations, students will be engaged and excited to learn with you from the comfort of their own home! 

  • Use your camera and audio so students can see you and feel connected. Many students struggle with change, and an unexpected change such as schools closing can be extremely challenging. 
  • Verbalize what is happening on the screen. The more ways a student gets the information the better! 
  • Transitions are hard for many students. Give students time to process that they will be moving to a new task, coming back from working independently, or taking a break. 
  • Be flexible! An unexpected change to remote learning will be hard on both educators and students. If something isn't working, be willing to pivot and try something new. Fail forward with your students! 
  • Check in frequently with students for understanding and stress levels. Take breaks as necessary even if they aren't planned. 
  • Seat time at school and time in a remote learning environment are different! Adjust your time accordingly to keep students engaged. 
  • Ensure students have very clear directions and expectations for all work. 
  • Ensure parents and students are given a suggested schedule for the day. Keep lunch at the same time and build in breaks or recess time depending on age. Have specific times that students will be working spread out throughout the day. 
  • Ensure accessing materials is as frustration free as possible. When possible, use technology that is already familiar to students.

Many students will benefit from using these tools while learning remotely. Take time in your virtual classroom setup as well as each school day to ensure that all of your students are getting the resources and tools they need to successfully learn while away from school. 

To learn even more and get help with these accessibility tools, visit the links below: