QM Considerations

CONSIDERATIONS: Teaching Effectively in a New Environment

Use of Multimedia

Consider using short multimedia for both content and feedback (e.g., Screencastify feedback, Zoom recordings or live, or Flipgrid). Consider that students may have limited internet connectivity, and keep videos short, audio clear, etc. These posts can be for announcements, clarification, short lectures/instruction, or giving students feedback on assignments. Whether it’s existing video materials or videos you created, refrain from sharing videos longer than 10 minutes. Consider breaking up longer videos into shorter chunks.

Content Navigation for grades 3-6

Unclear navigation and disorganized materials present a significant barrier for all students. Creating an effective learning path in Google Classroom for grades 3-6 will reduce frustration for everyone and encourage students to be more self-sufficient. Utilize the weekly learning plans for parent communication. If possible, also add explication and context by including a unit introduction and/or summary, information on how materials and assignments are connected to learning objectives, and assignments prompts and/or rubrics.

Facilitate Interaction and Collaboration

Active learning and engagement are facilitated by the interactions your students have with you, the content, and each other. Keep the active learning of your classroom-based course going by bringing discussion and collaboration online. Consider how students will continue to interact with one another, you, and course material by engaging collaborative and online interaction tools (e.g., Google Docs and Flipgrid) and synchronous tools (e.g., Zoom or Google Meet).

Student Data Protection and Privacy

Students may not be mindful of protecting their own data and may assume that the school has protections in place for online engagement. Encourage students to use the tools recommended through the course.

Copyright

Students and teachers will look to the way you use and acknowledge materials as an example. Materials you are putting online must comply with copyright laws. Model and expect students to use proper citations, references and use permissions.

Safe & Equitable Learning Environment

Consider and provide content that creates a safe and equitable learning environment. Materials you are putting online must represent a culturally diverse perspective, which is free from bias. Be certain to review materials to ensure the content avoids unnecessary advertisements and is free of adult or inappropriate content.

Fair and Equitable Access to Content

Every student is entitled to independently acquire the same information, engage in the same interactions, and enjoy the same learning experiences, regardless of disability. The law requires that you adhere to your students’ IEP and 504 plans- even when teaching remotely.