Several years ago when I was in public high school, I was in what was called then, “college preparatory” classes. Meaning that I was taking classes that I would need to get into a college upon graduation. They were quite difficult courses if I am remembering correctly. I struggled with Algebra 1 and 2, geometry, challenging English language classes, biology, and chemistry courses. I saw classmates grapple with these same classes. Had it not been for the learned teachers’ instructions and explaining some of the details, I can tell you for sure I would still be in high school.
With the explosion of Covid there was also a new concept come into being somewhat of a normal for the schooling of our children and some adults – ONLINE LEARNING. Everyone was so afraid and anxious about this new malady we were somewhat relieved that we didn’t have to send our kids to school where they would be subjected and exposed to this never heard of disease of which we were all so fearful.
My grandchildren joined the ranks of these computer students and began what seemed then, the only safe way of carrying on our lives but is now a completely and unnecessary part of our school curriculum, although nearly 80% of our students loved this remote learning and are continuing to be remotely taught this way.
I am of the mind that we should all go back to the classroom. Remote learning has quite a few shortcomings and negatives. There is a lack of communication between the teacher and the learner. At some point a student will need some communicative help from the instructor.
There is lack of motivation on the pupil’s end, time management is not thought of and some have trouble with staying disciplined, there are too many distractions around the study area, and it reduces student achievement and educational development and adversely affects students mental well-being with no social interaction.
If your child is an online student, he at the least needs virtual events from the computer classroom with provided face to face interaction so that there is immediate feedback. It’s as if there is no accountability on the learner’s part. I can remember my algebra teacher standing at my desk tapping her wooden ruler on the side and telling me I might need some tutoring. They don’t have this. There’s just no structure.
Now let’s talk about the downside even the learner can readily see. There is no opportunity to play sports, no participation in the band or any kind of social clubs and no way to have the interaction with friends and they surely need this social outlet. The cost? Online schooling cost on an average of $250 per month. That is unless you do this on your own, no whatsoever help from an instructor. Then you are totally on you own and some of them, only some, I am not judging all of them but some may take the easy way and find the app that will give you all the answers on your computer or phone and all answers are correct so you pass with flying colors but what have you learned?
I think we need to get back to the ‘old times’ not only in our prices, living, and values but in the schooling of our children.
Easy Easy Biscuits
2 ¼ cups of Bisquick, ½ cup of sour cream, ½ cup of Seven Up, ¼ cup of melted butter
Mix all together and I drop from a tablespoon onto a parchment covered skillet and cook at 400* for about 15 minutes.
