I definitely had a lot of feelings when I saw the Chancellor’s email yesterday about school reopening in September without a remote option and with more questions than answers. But one thing I’ve really been thinking about this semester is how no one seems to want to hear that remote learning is actually beneficial for some students.
I have a small Special Education class of 11th graders this semester and they are actually the only students I’ve had all year that I’ve met in person because I had them last year too in the before times. So, I can see how the different circumstances have effected their learning. And I have come to the conclusion that these particular students are doing better online.
There are definitely several factors at play here and this is anecdotal evidence collected by me through my observations. Several of these kids have cases of ADHD that render sitting in a seat and participating in class very difficult. They are distracted by each other, the hallway, their phones…all of these things add up to a difficult learning situation all around. However, online, I am getting very insightful responses from many of them and the majority of their writing has improved. At home, they can listen to the lesson and pace in their space…and not distract other people.
There is also a student who has severe anxiety and seems to be coping better at home. My school can be an overwhelming place, and this student is more comfortable in the home setting. This student, at times, makes me question why they are in Special Education in the first place, only to remember what in person school was like for them.
In the rush to attempt to erase this year and anything positive about remote learning, let’s remember that it wasn’t all bad. Some students actually flourished with increased focus and independence that just aren’t possible in the school setting. Now…I wonder what re-entry is going to look like.
Meditations on Literature and Literacy...Continued 