NZ has had another incidence of community Covid-19 :( reminding all of us to be vigilant and prepared for any eventuality, including the need for educational insitutes to move back to 'distance learning'. At the moment, the one community case is geographically confined to Northland, so the South Island is in the clear for the moment (whew), but we must not be complacent and ensure plans are in place for a smooth transition. This is especially so, after the rushed shift last year.
The National Institue of Digital Learning based at the University of Dublin in Ireland, has provided a good resource, summarising their 10 top articles from the education research sector, on Covid-19 experiences and initiatives.
Not all the articles featured are open access, but the blog provides good summaries/overviews of each article.
The prevalent themes are the importance of leadership, across the sector and institutions, to ensure there are planned and supported responses. The rushed, ad hoc 'emergency remote teaching' needs to be replaced by planned development of online learning. Leaderships is also required NOW to ensure issues of digital equity and literacy and addressed, BEFORE the need to draw on these two challenges. Without access to hardware and infrastructure capable of running the platforms selected for distance learning and the literacies required to engage with online learning, all aspects of learning are terminated before they can even begin :( The preparation of educators is also featured in this article (open access).
Of note is this article (open access) warning of the rush to put in place 'educational technology solutions' when 'non-digital' solutions may actually be just as relevant, engaging and/or effective. This is especially the case with practice-based learning, which is challenging to provide for through online learning.
Looks like an interesting week ahead as NZ reactions to the community spread evolves.
1 comment:
ecadema is the best professional online learning
platform for professional certifications. Whether you’re just starting out in your career or looking to take the next step up the ladder, a professional development course can help boost your skill set. It can teach you some of the fundamental skills needed in your professional life or build upon those you already have. Meet educators from top universities and cultural institutions, who'll share their experience through videos, articles, quizzes and discussions. Learning is no longer a chore.
Post a Comment