How can educators effectively build relationships by encouraging safe communication and interactions in online & open learning spaces? What did you already know, what do you know now based on the course readings and activities, what do you hope to learn?
With the shift in online learning it is very important that we make online learning fun and engaging for all students. In my Kindergarten class last year I started by modeling what a safe and comfortable environment looks like and feels like online. We talked a lot about respecting our friends online and role played how we should communicate with one another. I found the best way to engage students online is through play and live discussions. Every week we would have a live chat where the students were able to talk to their friends. They also used Flipgrid to connect with each other and show what they had been working on at home. The students really enjoyed responding to each other’s videos and it connected me to their home and family. Another great tool I used was prodigy. This math tool allowed students to play with each other and answer questions as a class.
The article “What is Human-Centered Instruction” (n.d), focuses on ‘tailoring learning to meet students needs’.This statement is vital to create a meaningful learning environment, First, we need to get to know the student on a deeper level and connect with them. After we find out their interests we can find tools and strategies to help them be successful. In my Kindergarten class there are a variety of different needs and abilities. I use epic kids to help my students who can’t speak English yet so they can listen to a story and follow along while other children read. Providing this tool allows them to participate fully with their other classmates.
Something I want to explore more is how to make online learning accessible to all. Some students do not have the luxury of having a quiet work space at home which can make it difficult to focus and engage in the activities. Some students may only have access to a phone or they might have to share a computer with their entire family. At my school many families did not have access to technology, and it was a challenge to provide equitable learning to all.
References:
What is Human-Centered Instruction? https://www.leadsv.com/hcn