How to Make Remote-Learning More Rewarding and Fun
Special to The Truth
In the remote-learning
environment of the 2020-21 academic year, certain types of
classes have been deprioritized and the school day has lost
some of the structure and sociability that in-person
learning affords.
In the face of these
challenges, how can you make remote-learning more rewarding
and fun for your child? Consider the following tips and
ideas:
• Encourage video study
sessions: Socializing is an invaluable aspect of a
traditional school day. Unfortunately, remote-learning can
be a lot more isolating. Have your child invite classmates
to form a remote study group. Doing so will help reinforce
lessons, make learning the material more interactive and
provide a much-needed opportunity for students to socialize.
• Reincorporate music
education: Have music classes been cancelled this year? Your
child can still reap the benefits of a music education by
playing an instrument like a Casiotone Keyboard. The
Casiotone series of keyboards are great for beginners. Not
only do they have a built-in learning system, they have a
3/4 jack for headphones so the rest of the house doesn’t
have to be distracted during practice sessions. Learning to
play a keyboard is not only fun, it can help with science,
math and cognitive learning. Studies have shown that
children and adults with musical training have heightened
skills in an area called executive functioning.
• Schedule midday
movement: Physical education may no longer be part of your
child’s curriculum, but you can still make time for
movement. Schedule a screen-free block of time each day to
replace gym class or recess. Encourage kids to move around
and if possible, get some fresh air. They’ll return to their
next class refreshed and focused.
• Master math at home:
Math can be an especially tricky subject to master remotely.
But new tools can help students grasp complex concepts. For
example, ClassPad.net is a tool geared toward K-12 and
beyond that exceeds the functionality of a calculator. Among
its many features are a virtual protractor and compass, and
a math-based text editor that provides a rich assortment of
mathematical templates. This web-based calculator also gives
users the ability to create folders, organize and share
work. These tools are free to educators and students and can
eliminate the need for an expensive graphing calculator. To
register or learn more, visit ClassPad.net.
• Create digital
masterpieces: Art is still an important subject for kids,
even if it isn’t being offered this year. However, you don’t
need to install a full-fledged art studio in your home for
kids to be able to create artwork in a range of mediums.
Digital apps mimic the act of drawing, painting,
illustration, collage and more, helping to build a
foundation of skills and lay the groundwork for further
exploration.
While some of the
challenges of remote-learning are inevitable, there are many
ways families can make the experience more positive for
students.
Courtesy StatePoint
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