What we know…
“I wasn’t sure if the student/teacher connections could still be made in an online format, but you have shown that it is still possible.” – eDCSD Parent
Reviewing what we know to be true about teaching and learning - teachers who develop a rapport with their students tend to develop a learning community that takes ownership of their learning and thus has higher academic gains. Online students share their lives and aspirations with their teachers through one-on-one phone calls or “Live Board” virtual office hours. We know that participation in any educational option is key to success. During their online classes, students are using the tools they typically think of as just “social” or “for fun” to enhance their understanding.
eDCSD students engage in their classes through blog posting and threaded discussion, as well as one-to-one question and answer sessions with their teachers. Students submit photos of their projects – a model of the solar system for example – through the message center. Furthermore, students must apply elements of critical thinking as they summarize their weekly learning in Algebra I, or assess the validity of a corporate logo in commercial art. They dialogue and debate the meaning of text through Socratic seminars using blogs and wikis. Fourth grade students practice multiplication facts using online math games. In second and third grade, students focus on their writing through revision sessions in Skype. And finally, middle school students use Tok Box to discuss what should be included in their online yearbook.
Clearly our philosophy of building an authentic learning environment, where content is relevant and students are linking new and old ideas through collaboration and inspiration, is truly beginning to take shape. As eDCSD is forming, we will continue to focus on three key areas: innovation, collaboration and critical thinking to prepare students for success in the 21st century.
“I look forward to your virtual classrooms or other interactions that she will be able to have with you this semester. Now that things are running more smoothly with the technology, I can see so much potential for this method of learning!” – eDCSD Parent
“The classes are going great! I am loving eDCSD! It’s different, but I am seeming to understand what I am learning.” – eDCSD Student
“I have been most touched by the individual connection that I am able to develop with each student and with each family.” – eDCSD Teacher
Things to look forward to include an outdoor education experience at the ropes climbing course, a field trip to the sewage plant and middle school math competitions….. (Remember to check the eDCSD-IQity announcements for details)
October 27th, 2008 at 12:54 pm
I completely agree that having rapport and consistent communication with students is SO important, especially when teaching online. Your thoughts on this post inspired me to connect even more with students through having more one on one time along with small group time. It was awesome hearing what the different grades are working on!!