Parents, teachers and children across the world have been working together to ensure education continues during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many schools were well prepared for shut-downs, with teachers and students alike equipped with the technology they needed – anything from laptops and tablets, to amazing sharing software.
Teachers from across the world have shared learnings with us about how they have kept their students engaged:
- A teacher in the United States told us that maintaining and communicating routines is very important. “It helps student feel safe, as well as learn.”
- Encouraging students to chat to each in the same way they talk in class really helps. “Only this time, I want to them to be on their mobiles, not put them away!” said another teacher in Hong Kong, smiling. “Celebrating homework done on time and giving each other virtual high fives also helps.”
- “Greeting students by name online is important – whether I’m saying it on a video link or in a chat box”, said another teacher from the UK.
- A teacher from Switzerland shared her experience of working with her students who range from 10 to 18 years old. “It’s been easier for the older students, as they are more focused and can use technology better. My younger children are finding it difficult, so I’m keeping them engaged through all the wonderful apps out there. I set up group puzzles and games in advance of each class. If a student finishes their class work quicker than others, they can create a jigsaw puzzle, take part in a hangman game, or post on our classroom wall, for example. “This weekend’s assignment was offline though – we are currently learning about housing, so we all built mini “Favela” houses out of cardboard – including myself! Parents took photos and shared them around. I was so pleased and proud of the creativity!”
Teachers are not only inspiring their students, they are helping each other out with tips and advice. Virtual staff rooms are up and running everywhere and, like other people working from home, teachers are holding their own meetings and online chats.
Do you have more questions? We recommend that you follow local Government advice and use the local health system where available.
Visit the Cigna Website or our Cigna Wellbeing™ App.
For more information on COVID-19, please follow the below links:
› World Health Organisation
› Centers for Disease Control and Prevention