Learning in the times of COVID-19

As we enter into another period of remote learning, we've had time to consider the impact of the Term 2 experience and have reached the end of another reporting period for students. This time students, teachers and families have a clearer idea of what's ahead of us.

During this time there is no shortage of professional discussions in which to be involved. They are worthwhile learning and exchanges of ideas. One such webinar I attended included a discussion of Cognitive Load Theory and Design Learning. It's time to look closely at students and their learning environment.

The conclusions of Psychologist, Andrew Fuller were particularly worthy of discussion. He suggested we need to listen to the students who are thriving and give them a voice. Why do many of them like the new arrangements of remote learning?  He suggested the processes we put in place in the coming months will stick.

Pathways to future learning he proposed (with caution) were:

1. Retention of some model of remote learning. Some learning will be asynchronous.

2. Increased brevity of instructional elements. The exploration of ideas is more important than the provider.

3. Platforms we’re using today will quickly become out dated.

4. Current university selection criteria will be reviewed. There will be higher levels of participation online.

5. Interdisciplinary learning – there will be more linkages between subjects.

6. Personalised learning will come into its own. Character strengths will be important. Here is a chance for teachers. Less mob think and tribalism.

7. We need to help people become design learners.

8. Importance of cultural competency. Ethics of common issues and focus on values.

The overall message that came from the webinar - When nothing is certain, everything is possible.

We need to work smarter on a new way of learning.