Back in the days of Covid, home schooling children was an absolute minefield. I was very grateful for remote learning put into place to help with this. But what do we think now? Is more time learning in the home environment beneficial and should we seriously consider in putting remote learning opportunities in place for children in 2023, when thankfully Covid seems to be under control?
This is a question that many parents and educators are asking themselves as we enter a new era of education. Remote learning has its advantages and disadvantages, and it may not suit every child or every situation. In this blog post, I will explore some of the pros and cons of remote learning, and share some tips on how to make it work for your family.
Pros of remote learning:
– Remote learning can offer more flexibility and convenience for both parents and children. You can choose when and where to learn, and adjust the pace and level of difficulty according to your child’s needs and interests. You can also avoid the hassle of commuting, packing lunches, and dealing with school uniforms.
– Remote learning can foster more independence and responsibility in children. They can learn how to manage their own time, set their own goals, and monitor their own progress. They can also develop skills such as self-motivation, self-discipline, and problem-solving.
– Remote learning can provide more opportunities for personalised and differentiated instruction. You can access a variety of online resources and platforms that cater to different learning styles and preferences. You can also customise the curriculum and activities to suit your child’s strengths and weaknesses, passions and hobbies.
– Remote learning can enhance family bonding and communication. You can spend more quality time with your child, and get more involved in their learning process. You can also share your own experiences and knowledge, and learn new things together.
Cons of remote learning:
– Remote learning can pose challenges for socialisation and interaction. Your child may miss the face-to-face contact and feedback from their teachers and peers. They may also feel isolated or lonely, especially if they don’t have siblings or friends to play with at home.
– Remote learning can create distractions and interruptions at home. You may have to deal with noise, clutter, or other household chores that can affect your child’s concentration and motivation. You may also have to balance your own work or personal commitments with your child’s learning needs.
– Remote learning can require more resources and support from parents. You may have to invest in devices, internet connection, software, or other materials that are necessary for online learning. You may also have to provide guidance, supervision, or assistance to your child, especially if they are young or struggling with the content or technology.
– Remote learning can cause stress and anxiety for both parents and children. You may feel overwhelmed by the amount of work or information that you have to handle. You may also feel pressured or guilty about your child’s academic performance or well-being.
Tips for successful remote learning, if such a thing became…..a thing!
– Establish a routine and a structure for your child’s remote learning. Set a regular schedule for waking up, eating, studying, playing, and sleeping. Create a designated space for learning that is comfortable, quiet, and free from distractions. Set clear expectations and rules for your child’s behaviour and participation.
– Communicate with your child’s teachers and school regularly. Stay updated on the curriculum, assignments, deadlines, assessments, and feedback. Ask questions or raise concerns if you have any issues or difficulties. Seek help or support if you need it.
– Encourage your child’s socialisation and interaction with others. Arrange virtual or physical playdates with their friends or classmates. Join online clubs or groups that share their interests or hobbies. Participate in community events or activities that are safe and fun.
– Monitor your child’s progress and well-being. Check their work and provide praise or constructive criticism. Track their achievements and challenges, and celebrate their successes or help them overcome their failures. Pay attention to their mood and emotions, and address any signs of stress or anxiety.
– Take care of yourself and your family. Maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating well, exercising regularly, sleeping enough, and relaxing occasionally. Seek balance between your work or personal life and your child’s remote learning. Reach out to your family members, friends, or professionals if you need help or support.
Remote learning is not a one-size-fits-all solution for education. It has its benefits and drawbacks, depending on your child’s personality, abilities, goals, and circumstances. As a parent, you would have to weigh the pros and cons of remote learning for your family, and decide what works best for you. It may never happen, but it could…….
What do you think about remote learning? Would you prefer it over traditional schooling? Why or why not? Share your thoughts in the comments below!