Remote Learning Resources

The COVID-19 pandemic is putting us all to the test both mentally and physically.  Schools across the world have begun to shut down for extended periods of time and remote learning plans are either being developed or put into effect.  I will be the first one to say that this is no easy task. Special considerations have to be made for our youngest learners as this group presents a unique challenge. Equally as important are strategies that have to be put in place to ensure equity. Some students do not have access to devices or the Internet. In this case, they can’t be sent to public places as a solution. For any plan to work these major challenges have to be addressed. Now let's talk resources. 

Over the years I have written extensively on the power of technology to empower learners both in and out of the classroom. There is a wealth of options out there.  Google Hangouts and Zoom are great options to disseminate content through video just by pushing out a link. Asynchronous flipped lessons can be created using a variety of tools and added to YouTube or a learning management system (Google Classroom, Schoology, Canvas, Moodle) for learners to access.  While all of these represent fantastic options, it is important to take into consideration ways to impart greater engagement and ownership through application and construction of new knowledge. Below are some posts that I have written over the years that might be able to aid educators as they look to facilitate remote learning.

• Edtech Tools for SPED, Math, and Reading - Extensive list of tools with mini-descriptions on how they can be used to support distance learning.
• Ideas and Tools to Give Everyone a Voice - Increase engagement in virtual environments.
• Backchanneling: The Why, How, and What (Best Tool) - Get learners actively involved in virtual environments.
• The Pedagogy of Digital Discussion
• Finding the Right Tools

You can also search the following for specific tools, lesson ideas, and projects  that are age-level appropriate tools using the following:

• edshelf
• OER Commons
• Common Sense Education

Below are even more amazing resources:

• OER and Digital Curriculum
• 105 Tools for Distance Learning & Strategies for Student Engagement
• Remote teaching and learning resources from Microsoft Education
• 16 Free Resources for Schools Who are Closing Due to Coronavirus

I hope these sites and resources are helpful and I encourage you to share more resources in the comments section below. For more ideas follow #remotelearning on social media.