Provide structure
In a remote learning environment, one of the most shocking parts for students and educators will be transitioning from a highly structured day to a day with little structure. For educators and administrators, it may be tempting to try to replicate the school day in a virtual setting. However, the reality is that such a schedule in a remote learning environment is highly impractical. Remember what was discussed in the unit Considerations. Students may have numerous reasons why they'll be unable to sit in front of a device from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Even if they have the resources and time to do so, think about it for a minute. Would it really be healthy for us to replicate our school day, teach as we currently teach, and ask our students to sit in front of a device for seven hours? No matter what the age of the students, such a plan is unhealthy and fraught with negative consequences.
Instead, consider a school day structure that allows for students to connect with educators at designated times throughout the day, but also honors the challenges of remote learning and the circumstances of the event that prompted school closures. Modified schedules for different age levels can meet the goals of remote learning without taxing students and parents too greatly.
One Microsoft Showcase School created the following schedules for its students
For 3rd and 4th graders at the school, students and educators are using this schedule:
Link to text version of the example student schedule
Similar to the 3rd and 4th grade schedule, educators can select the time of their Teams call within the designated three-hour window for their block. Students don't meet the entire three hours. Educators will also record their lessons to ensure anyone who is absent can watch the call later. While students have a conference call or two within a day, the remainder of the day will entail independent study. Educators will assign around two to three hours’ worth of independent study that can be completed during the week before their next call.
Students and parents aren't the only ones who need to find a new structure to their day. Our days also need restructuring. If your school were to follow a similar schedule to the one above, here is an example of how you could structure your day:
Link to text version of the example educator schedule
Once that structure is in place, help yourself and your students find a rhythm to their day by recommending a schedule they can follow.