Clarity in Communication
We talked about increasing touch points with students in the Relationship Module. We want to let families and students know that we are here for them regardless of where learning is taking place. Take your creativity in reaching students face-to-face beyond the walls of your physical space. How will you let parents and students know you are available?
Routines and Boundaries
Don't forget your routines and boundaries. Set your office hours when you are available and set a time when you are done for the day. It is really easy to let work go on and on in remote setting. Establish your boundaries and stick to them.
Host Office Hours
Let students know you are available during set times throughout the week. Check e-mail frequently during these times, check discussion boards you've established for questions, etc. Consider hosting tutoring hours separately that can be captured in a shared Google Doc, discussion board, or Google Meet/Big Blue Button (Canvas) meeting with a few students.
Virtual Hours.pdf Download Virtual Hours.pdf
Be Clear About Learning
Send a newsletter via email or set up announcements in Seesaw Links to an external site. or Canvas Links to an external site.. Parents have access to Seesaw and Canvas, so they can view weekly learning plans and announcements. Send exemplars for the upcoming week and follow up with take aways for the current learning cycle.
Avoid daily announcements. Remote learning can be overwhelming for everyone. Thus communication should be simple, explicit, and set. Try to determine what questions students might have and provide details for that question. Help parents and students set up proper notifications in Canvas and Seesaw.
Chunk or break down directions and learning tasks into appropriate sized challenges.
Keep All Learners in Mind
No doubt teachers care about all students. That is why we take so much time intentionally prepping our lessons so that all learners can be included. Obviously this is the same in our remote communication. Use images and icons, audio and/or video options in addition to text. Give students and families choices in how they receive your messages.
Consider Common Questions
Host a FAQ page that addresses some of the common questions below. Consider even hosting a discussion board where students can post questions and you and possibly other students can answer.
Use a Calendar (Google/Canvas) and Set Due Dates
Setting due dates gives students a goal and allows them to create a schedule for the week. Posting items on a calendar for Google (set as public or share Links to an external site. the link with families on your Google Classroom/Seesaw page) or Canvas Links to an external site. makes it easy for students to proactively plan.