Before we dive into this topic, let’s start by putting down some crucial facts: Everyone is improvising. Everyone is doing their best for our students and children. There is no right answer.
Now that we have that settled, we can discuss the benefits and drawbacks of remote learning in the midst of COVID-19. Whether you have decided on this path for your children earlier this fall, or are weighing this option for next year, know that we support you and your family. We know that this is a very personal decision, filled with uncertainty and many other factors that vary from family to family.
Is remote learning the right choice for you? 5 Factors to consider
If you are trying to decide if remote learning is the right choice for your family, we invite you to consider the following factors: Exposure, Routine, Socialization, Screentime, and Support. Give each of these factors some thought, so that you can make the best decision for your child or student.
1. Exposure
The first factor, exposure, is fairly self-explanatory. Remote learning will limit your child’s exposure to COVID-19 from their classmates. It should be noted schools are going to great lengths to prevent this from happening, but this can be a very high priority, especially in families with immunocompromised and high-risk individuals.
2. Routine
The next factor, routine, is important for all children, but especially for our special needs population. If a student is fully remote and the school needs to close for quarantine, this will not disrupt the remote learning routine. However, if you are thinking of transitioning your student from an in-person or blended learning model to fully remote learning, this will also cause a disruption in their current routine and will require an adjustment period.
3. Socialization
The third factor is socialization, which is largely dependent on your child and the social setting they thrive in. Consider trying video calls with friends and family over the break and ask for their thoughts on the experience! Get feedback from your child to see if this is an approach that might work for them, and give it a few tries to help them adjust before deciding if it’s a good solution or not.
4. Screen time
The fourth factor is screen time. Remote learning will require more screen time from children, and for schoolwork to be completed using their devices. Although this can sound daunting or monotonous, know that teachers have been working hard to create engaging lessons and activities geared towards remote learners.
5. Support
The fifth, but certainly not the last factor, is support. Considering if you are prepared or able to provide the level of support that your student needs to thrive, as well as identifying other options to support your child at a distance are great places to start!
The Da Vinci team is here to support you no matter which option works best for you and your family. We are able to offer all of our services virtually, as well as in-person! Our individualized tutoring services can be tailored to fit the subject area and learning needs of your student. Additionally, our assistive technology consultations and evaluations can provide you and your child with direction and practical tools to assist them in schoolwork and foster their independence, both inside and outside the classroom!
By Christina Maragioglio
If you would like to partner with Da Vinci to support your child through remote learning and beyond, please contact Christina Maragioglio, our Director of Technology and Learning, by email at cmaragioglio@davincicenter.net or by phone at (631)793-0704 to discuss how to get started!
