Many schools have switched to a remote learning system or hybrid schedule in response to the current pandemic. This has some advantages but can also cause students to lose focus or become easily distracted. There are many ways to keep kids focused on their education as teachers and parents adjust to this new system.
Create a Learning Space
Having a designated learning space helps students separate their home and school life. Even if it’s just a corner of the room, having an organized spot for studying will provide consistency and structure for students during their school day. Also, removing distractions from wherever the student works helps keep them on task.
Organize the Room
Create an inviting and neat learning environment by organizing furniture and supplies. Designate a desk, a comfortable chair, and any other items that are needed for studying.
Minimize Distractions
Limit the number of external noises or visual distractions in the room. Ensure the student is not distracted by computers, phones, TVs, or any other distracting electronic device.
Provide Necessary Supplies
Ensure the student has all the necessary supplies for studying. This could include pens, paper, textbooks, laptops, highlighters, and other items needed for their courses.
Establish Schedules and Routines
Maintaining a sense of normalcy for children can be significantly helped by parents and guardians. Students’ daily activities can be regulated by developing a routine and a schedule. Procrastination is avoided, and students are kept organized when they know specific tasks must be completed. Students can maintain their focus while studying by developing self-care routines like exercising and meditation.
Create a Visual Schedule
Designate a space for a visual schedule with images or words that outline the tasks and procedures that should take place each day. It can also be a good idea to create a timer or reminder for when transitions occur throughout the day.
Establish Routines
Consistency is critical in helping children understand when they need to start and end activities. Please have your child practice the same daily routine so that they know what to expect, including the order of activities.
Provide Positive Reinforcement
When rules and routines are followed, please provide your child with positive reinforcement to let them know they are doing a good job. This could include verbal praise, rewards, or special privileges.
Set Clear Consequences
Be aware of when boundaries need to be established and provide clear consequences when your child does not follow the rules. Explain why their behavior is inappropriate and how it needs to be adjusted in the future.
Utilize Technology
Technology can be leveraged to make remote learning more effective, convenient, and secure. Web filters are handy in schools that use online platforms for instruction. These systems block websites with inappropriate or irrelevant content while offering real-time monitoring of student activity online. Additionally, video conferencing tools like Zoom, Skype, or Google Hangouts can help reduce distractions and allow for direct interaction between teachers and students.
Leveraging Tech to Improve Remote Learning
Ensuring that remote learning is effective, convenient, and secure can be achieved through the use of technology. For example, K-12 web filters can block inappropriate or irrelevant content while monitoring student activity online.
Utilizing Video Conferencing to Engage Students
Using video conferencing tools like Zoom, Skype, or Google Hangouts can help keep students engaged during remote learning and reduce distractions for both students and teachers.
Online Learning Platforms for Secure Learning Environments
Online platforms such as Canvas or Blackboard can securely facilitate instruction, allowing teachers and students to access the same information at any time from any location.
21st-Century Tools for Collaborative Learning
Collaboration tools such as Google Docs and other tools like these can enable students to work together on projects and assignments in real time, allowing them to engage in meaningful conversations and problem-solving activities.
Conclusion
Overall, remote learning provides many benefits, such as reducing operational costs and allowing parents to work from home while their children complete school work. For remote learning to be successful for teachers and students, it is crucial to establish routines and schedules, create a dedicated learning area in the home, and use technology such as web filter systems which help keep students safe online while providing optimal educational experiences.
