Aspen View provides tips for continuity of learning

ATHABASCA – Continuity of learning is important for the millions of students around the world who are now faced with accessing their lessons in a very different environment than they are used to — in their own homes. 

Aspen View Public Schools' continuation of educational programming, online teaching and learning started March 30 relying on parents to ensure students are taking part. They’ve compiled a list of resources on their website to help parents and students carry on with education at home and setting up students for success. 

Director of curriculum and technology for the school division, Donna Wesley, said it is important for parents as well as students to maintain communication with teachers. Communication is both knowing what’s going on in school and maintaining connections to support the mental health of students. 

“Some of the best advice for both students and parents is to keep open lines of communication with teachers and schools,” said Wesley. “Each of them has ways to keep in touch, whether by email, video conferencing, Google Classroom, social media, phone, etc.”  

“These communication tools not only allow you to ask questions or get help, but they also help maintain the human interaction of the school environment that can greatly support students’ mental health and wellbeing.” 

Wesley added that teachers and administration are prepared to help students and their families with any barriers that limit student access to continuing their learning during the pandemic. 

“We know that the at-home learning environment is unique for each student and each family,” she said. “Each has different circumstances, depending on parents’ schedules, available technology, health or financial challenges, or other factors. Please communicate with your school and your teachers so they can work with you to come up with a learning ­­­strategy that meets your needs.”  

Structure and routine are also important. Have a schedule and sticking to it is important, she said. Putting devices away, turning off the television and dressing for school and ensuring there are breaks just like recess can help students achieve their goals. 

“You can help your children by providing them with a structure and routine, and being a positive force in their education,” Wesley said. 

Wesley provided tips for successful at-home learning including creating a dedicated space where distractions are limited, ensuring students get enough sleep and are eating healthy and encouraging social interaction while respecting social distancing. 

“Encourage social interaction, while respecting physical distancing,” Wesley said. “Help children maintain the social interaction of school by allowing them to communicate with friends by phone, video chat or other means.” 

She added communication is valuable for parents as well, suggesting touching base with other families to swap stories and share strategies like how to prevent the overuse of computers and devices. 

“Overuse of screen time can have an adverse impact young brains, so it’s important to mix it up during a time like this,” Wesley explained. “When you child isn’t engaging with their teachers via technology, limit screen time by mixing in ‘old school’ mediums and having children do activities such as read printed books, play cards, cook a favorite recipe, or write a story about some old family photos.” 

Aspen View has developed an online Continuing Student Learning portal to assist students, families and teachers and it contains valuable resources to help support at-home learning like technology tutorials, early learning home activities and at-home literacy and numeracy supports at https://sites.google.com/aspenview.org/continuing-student-learning/home 

Wesley encouraged parents and students to reach out if they need help.

“Remember, you’re not alone in this journey."