It works if you’re willing

I’ve seen lots of commentary in the news about online school and how it’s “impossible.” I’m a college TA and student, dealing directly with online learning, and yes, it can work. There’s a learning curve; we’re dealing with new technologies and methodologies. There are teachers and students who have challenges accessing the technology. That needs to be addressed. But the idea that it’s impossible? Nonsense.

Instructors at all levels need to be willing to try new things. I’ve seen so many examples of teachers who are managing to successfully innovate, there’s no reason why the rest can’t do it as well. But there are teachers who aren’t even trying. I get it, learning new tech can be overwhelming. But Zoom meetings aren’t the only option. Type up notes, source websites and videos, reach out to colleagues and institutions for ideas and help and provide links. Involve the students, design activities that they can do that they can record or report on. The possibilities are endless, but we have to be willing to try.

Above all, be flexible and open minded and communicate with your students. They are as stressed out and frazzled as the teachers, and when the teacher complains that they can’t do it, that has an unbelievably negative impact on learning. This world is crazy right now and we need to make the best of the situation. Whining that things are “impossible” does nothing to help.

Katherine Williams

Spokane