Question 2
Adaptation
This entry is my reflection on how I
have adapted to the changed conditions of schooling and remote learning and my
efforts in supporting students and staff. Change is inevitable in all things.
Education does not exist in a bubble and it is subject to the changes which
take place in society. To keep it relevant and effective teachers should be able
to adjust as well.
The
ending of 2019 and the beginning of 2020 ushered in a swift change of societal
norms worldwide. The rapid spread of the covid-19 caused drastic adjustments in
every facet of life. The closure of schools in March of 2020 created an atmosphere
of uncertainty and hostility towards teachers. Personally, adaptation was slow.
The first hurdle was to overcome the general hate speech from the public. To
this day I don’t honestly feel that society truly appreciates the teaching
profession and simple sees teachers as babysitters. Be that as it may, after
abstaining from media in general, considering news reports also took cheap
shots at teachers, I was able to rekindle my desire to be a teacher and began
to slowly embrace this new normal.
My
second hurdle was developing a system to effectively teach my students online.
I ideally envisioned fashioning my classes along the lines of an online
tutorial where I would showcase demonstrations which students can follow to
complete assignments at home. Unfortunately, the logistics of that production
was too costly. My students also indicated they were unable to secure
materials. In the end, I decided to focus my class on art theory until we knew
if we would be able to return to school.
Fast-forwarding
to the present, I eventually developed a system that has been working well so
far. I have been using Microsoft Teams and
Zoom to host class calls where I give PowerPoint presentations. I am
also able to conduct demonstrations Thanks to a good friend of mine who donated
a ring light. I try to be as understanding as possible with my parents and
student with my classwork and allow my students to present digital work as much
as possible. On the occasion that they work by hand, they submit pictures for
assessment. I have also been trying my best to counsel my students to help them
cope with virtual teaching. So far the responses have been positive, so much so
that first formers once declared that they enjoy my sessions the most.
I
assist my fellow staff. Some of my colleagues
are not digital natives and struggle to navigate the digital landscape. Once I have
completed all my work with students, I usually offer to sit in classes or
troubleshoot any platform issues I can to allow their lessons to go smoother. I
believe once everyone does their part the education system will be able to overcome
the challenges imposed by this pandemic. Teaching online is mentally draining
but I am pleased that it has been a catalyst for conversations of blended
learning and the possibility of more integration of technology in schools.
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