Catholic Schools Onward

Best Practices and New Opportunities as We Move Forward


VIRTUAL LEARNING – COHORT INSTRUCTION

(Please note that as current information becomes available this page will be updated – 06.25.2020.)

CSO Home  | Introduction  |  Philosophy  |  Process  |  Checklist  |  Other Considerations

 

Introduction

While we realize that in-person instruction has greater impact at the elementary level, the need for virtual learning has become a reality in a variety of circumstances including the pandemic-related quarantines,(including individual or small group situations) weather-related situations, and building maintenance issues.  Physical presence in the classroom allows time for students to develop spiritually, socially, emotionally, physically, and academically. When this is not possible, it is important to provide a means for student learning without interruption.

 

Philosophy

As much as possible, instruction will continue to apply best practices incorporating our Catholic Identity and  based on  educational research and sound pedagogy.   The term “virtual learning” refers to adapted instructional practices being utilized by means of online instruction and interaction with students using various technology devices and platforms aligned to the curriculum through various synchronous and asynchronous methods  Virtual learning can take place in situations where students are unable to be physically present in the school building.

 

Process

  1. Provide the use of a Learning Management System (LMS) to centralize materials, lessons, instruction. assessments, feedback and communications.
  2. Direct instruction will take place on a daily basis as teachers:
    • Provide a continued focus on our Catholic identity throughout instruction and in all content areas.
    • Live-stream direct instruction by teacher.
    • Incorporate recorded instruction via You Tube video with follow up.
    • Provide materials that are age- and grade-appropriate.
    • Use textbook online components with timely follow-up.
  3. Use  assessments with timely feedback.
  4. Goal is mastery of curriculum for the year.
  5. Use  small group and large group instruction to meet needs of students.
  6. Have regular communication with parents/guardians.
  7. Set up a process for students to view class from home.
  8. Teacher are to encourage age appropriate physical movement to avoid sitting too long.   (This idea comes from both educators of young people and the science behind adult learning, as well.) Instructing students to stand up and shake it out is a big deal, hence suggesting we include the principle of movement.
  1.  

 

Checklist

  • Prepare administrators, teachers, students and parents to use Learning Management System (LMS) platforms. Where possible and with the assistance of the tech coaches, provide instructional videos on the use of the recommended platforms.
  • Provide the needed devices to use the platform.
  • Tech team should provide recommendations for giving specifics to the schools for items needed when ordering.  Develop a video to assist parents in understanding virtual learning itself.
  • Consider Value Proposition—here are the principles behind what we are doing with virtual learning. 
  • Be sure to include Catholic Identity.  
  • Complete video  in time for release of web site.  Put together ideas for video.   
  • Include OCE and the principal, Andrew and Sr. Edward will work on this.

 

Other Considerations.

  • Keep in focus the Standards for Ministerial Behavior.

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