Could digital citizenship be the most important pandemic lesson?

When the pandemic prompted schools to quickly shift to distance learning last spring, educators became responsible for using online technologies to teach students. This was the first time that many educators had to grapple not only with virtual classroom management, but with helping their students learn the ins and outs of staying safe online. This included a crash course in learning and behaving online.

This set of “online manners” is referred to as digital citizenship, which is how we should behave when using digital tools, interacting with others online, and becoming better stewards of technology.

As a leader of a nonprofit where young kids connect and learn online, we prioritize teaching kids these important skills that will take them well into adulthood. …Read More

2 teacher perspectives on ELLs and learning loss

Since the pandemic started, teachers and students have had to transition from brick-and-mortar classrooms to virtual environments, and back. During this time, learning loss–the reversal of academic progress due to disrupted formal education–has been of significant concern to educators. Unfortunately, studies show that English Language Learners (ELLs) have been disproportionately impacted by learning loss, as compared to their peers.

According to the OECD, school closures and distance learning measures have put ELLs at a greater disadvantage compared to the general student population. A learning gap, which existed prior to the pandemic, is widening across the United States. At the same time, the demands of virtual and hybrid learning have put incredible strains on teachers throughout the pandemic. 

This issue has become a point of controversy for English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers, who do not feel the term ‘learning loss’ accurately describes the complex situation faced by ELLs in America.  …Read More

Celebrate National Distance Learning Week Nov. 8-12 with Live, Daily Free Programs for K-12

North Mankato, Minn. – Distance learning has long been a part of the education landscape. In the midst of the second pandemic-disrupted year the field has flexed, adapted and evolved to encompass a myriad of teaching methods to a wide-ranging student population. In May 2020 demand for online educational courses was up 250% from the previous year. Virtual learning has become a permanent fixture in modern academia.

This year, the Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration (CILC) is honoring National Distance Learning Week (NDLW) by offering 10 live, virtual lessons and field trips with topics ranging from scientific to historical to artistic. Below is a list of the two free classes offered each day during NDLW along with a link to registration.

Monday, Nov. 8:          American Indian Stories: The Three Sisters                                                   By Booth Western Art Museum, for Grades 1-3…Read More