How is offline education affected by the pandemic? How are schools preparing for resuming offline schooling?

From the Desktop to the Desk!

When we think of education the first thing that comes to mind is Science, Math, English and other academic subjects which prepare us for future career prospects. But if we give it more thought, ‘A Good Education’ consists of many other significant and fundamental factors which are essential to prepare students for the real world and not just a vocation or profession. Online platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, etc. used by international schools in Mumbai have managed to meet the academic aspect of education to some extent. Teachers across schools are able to take classes and impart curriculum so as not to leave any gaps in the teaching learning process.

“When educating the minds of our youth, we must not forget to educate their hearts.”-Dalai Lama.

This line brings to the core those aspects of education that have truly been affected by the pandemic. Work habits and routines, discipline, independence, social skills, attitude and most importantly values. These traits and characteristics can only be imbibed through social interaction and connection amongst peers, classmates and teachers. Routines like getting an early start, reaching school on time, following the timetable for the day, task completion etc. are essential to inculcate a sense of responsibility in students. International schools in Mumbai have succeeded in creating a setting where children are expected to follow a certain code of conduct and behavior. This in turn leads to a disciplined lifestyle from an early age. Younger students have to be assisted by parents at home for the online platform. However, it is going to be a challenge for them to work independently once they are back to physical school. Social skills like understanding others and their feelings and perspectives are crucial at the developmental stage. It starts with acknowledging and appreciating that everyone is different. With this understanding, empathy and respect for others are essential steps in social awareness. Communication, cooperation, and conflict resolution are indispensable to healthy relationships. Values like compassion, humility, respect and courage are a guide for human behavior. These help students to grow and develop.

Also read,
https://www.adityabirlaworldacademy.com/blog/striking-a-balance-its-time-to-integrate-emotional-intelligence-into-our-school-education-policy

Now with the latest government directives international schools in Mumbai are gearing up to resume physical schooling. Most schools are planning a hybrid and blended learning model in order to follow the norms of social distancing. Another reason for this is because quite a few parents are still hesitant to start physical school for their children. This is understandable as they are not yet vaccinated which makes them more vulnerable. Hence we now have the concept of ‘Roomies’ and ‘Zoomies’. Within this hybrid environment a teacher and a subset of students are in a physical classroom together while another group of students participates remotely on Zoom.

However, hybrid teaching is not going to be a piece of cake. It will come with its own set of challenges. I teach kindergarten and my current batch of students have never been to physical school. For them coming to school is going to be a whole other experience. For younger students’ separation anxiety is a major concern. They have been in a protected confined environment for the last two years. Now the idea of coming to school and being away from their parents for a couple of hours will surely be stressful for certain kids. In addition to that, teachers will have to ensure that safety protocols are being followed like social distancing and wearing a mask at all times. But one thing the pandemic has thought us is that the human race is resilient and ready to adapt and adjust to new situations. And this is especially true of children.

Aditya Birla World Academy is an international school with an Indian soul. We believe in a holistic approach and a value based education. Along with academic achievements, the emotional and mental well-being of the child is of the utmost significance. A happy child is a healthy child. Keeping this is mind I am sure we will be able to achieve a successful transition from online to offline.

The best way to get things done is to simply begin. We as parents and teachers will have to keep the faith and get the ball of the ‘New Normal’ rolling. The students will join in and win the game!

also read-
https://www.adityabirlaworldacademy.com/blog/how-much-do-best-international-schools-focus-on-extra-and-co-curricular-activities-what-are-the-activities-included
https://www.adityabirlaworldacademy.com/blog/will-studying-a-levels-after-igcse-in-india-help-in-cracking-indian-entrance-exams