Brain Blowing Distance Learning Teaching Hacks for Back to School 2020

Distance Learning….Back to School?!

NO one could have predicted this either a few months ago (or they did and we didn’t listen…).

So with some experience under our belt we dive into a new school year and some or ALL Distance Learning.

This list will focus on upper elementary ideas as that is where my experience is but many can apply other grade levels as well.

We’re going to dive DEEP into how distance learning can be successful and get you in the right mindset. Sign up for the Distance Learning Workshop! to learn and PLAN EXACTLY how this looks for YOUR classroom!

Set up a Distance Learning Classroom at Home Office Space

It is IMPERATIVE that you have a space if possible to teach different from living space!

Having a space separate from living gives a mental break for teaching and separates work from home.

We rearranged our upstairs playroom to provide an office space and the transition has such a mental impact on my morale even. It did take some thinking but made such a huge difference in my mindset.

Having the right tools for your classroom at home back to school helps as well!

Distance Learning Lesson Plans LOOK different

Assignments look different, teaching new concepts looks different and while not less important noting how to modify your teaching to still meet student’s need is important.

Small skill based or introduction videos keep manageable time for students!

Followed by self-checking (hello…Google Forms) practice and personal feedback

AND

larger skill-based projects (building websites….writing blogs…book reviews…creating videos) all show mastery in a distance learning environment.

You can grab these FREE First Day Back to School Distance Learning Lesson Plans to use!

Breaking it down into manageable pieces is key for you and your students!

Stick to a Distance Learning Schedule

Have planned office hours that you abide by. Keep strict limits on your time on work outside of work hours…..remember an office in a separate part of house is great!

Keep where videos are located and when they are released consistent. Students know where to show up, when new content is ready, and how to turn in assignments.

Consistency and modifying the teaching methods still lead to success in a digital environment.

MESSAGE FATIGUE is real! Keep consistent messaging to students and families but overwhelming information has the opposite effect! It gets unintentionally lost or drowned out in the vast amount families are weeding through.

Make Personal Connections with students!

It goes without saying just how integral this is. Notes, emails, personal calls, snail mail….anything to build that connection (even through a screen!)

Tough but not impossible.

I love sending these notes because they are FUN!

Positive Notes: Bundle, Notes from Teachers and Students, Bitmojis, Compliments

A last resource worth mentioning is this comprehensive Distance Learning Resource from Cult of Pedagogy that really breaks down information and can help generate more ideas!

Beyond the first day, definitely check out this Distance Learning Workshop! Really the entire FREE eBook you get is PACKED with ideas that can be used for distance learning!