Making Online Learning Accessible for All
As a learning specialist who supports students with learning challenges, I find myself wondering how my students will cope during this time of virtual learning. If they’re unable to come to my study support class, or pop in at lunch, or stay after school with their teacher, will they still be able to pass? It’s also a lot of pressure to put on parents who are likely working full-time and now are meant to seemingly homeschool their children. So how can teachers ensure online learning is accessible?
Here’s a few strategies to keep in my mind for ALL learners with some engaging resources.
Make your directions concise and clear: I get it. You have a lot of instructions to give when the students aren’t in front of you, but struggling learners will struggle with your instructions in the form of a paragraph. Use numbers or bullet points - or accompany your directions with a video. Remember you’re not physically there for clarification.
Be flexible with due dates: Timelines need to shift. What our students do with us, they do faster. When they grapple with it independently, they will need more time.
Continue to provide structure: The sooner you get organized, the sooner your students will adjust to this new way of learning. Offer a routine that students can follow (i.e. watch a video, comment, create, share). If you are consistent with your platforms and expectations, more students will find success.
Make it visual: Anytime you’re having students read something independently, find a way to make it visual. Share a link to a video or image that can help them make visual connections. Better yet, have them produce something visual. The more senses we engage the more likely we are to remember.
Make a comic (Pixton, Make Beliefs Comix, Storyboard That)
Design an infographic, brochure, advertisement, or poster (Canva, Piktochart, Poster My Wall)
Create a “blueprint” for a historical or fictional setting (Sketch Up)
Make a digital book - maybe an interactive children’s book, an instruction manual, or a digital portfolio (Book Creator, Storybird, UTellStory)
Make it moving (picture): What better way to learn than making a video? It’s visual, auditory, and if you do it right kinesthetic as well.
Short video submissions are great on Flipgrid
Create a moving animation or video with Powtoon, Biteable, or MySimpleShow
Exit tickets are essential: You won’t be able to “read the room” so make sure students submit something at the end of each lesson as a check for understanding (no matter how short or small). Use these potential red flags to connect with struggling students.
Video conference with your students: This might seem like a no brainer - but students that regularly get one-on-one support are going to struggle with so much independent learning. Set up 30 minute sessions with these students and review any confusing material. Ask them to have questions ready to maximize your time. If they say “I don’t have any questions” PLEASE still check in.
Have more ideas? Please share in the comments. It takes a (virtual) village.