Confessions of an Online Learner

As a full-time remote learner, my experience is bound to be different from most. My dining table is my classroom and my teacher is a screen. However different my setting is, the changes in classes were (and still are) the biggest hurdle for me.

One major problem is the obvious disconnect between in-class learners and remote learners. If a teacher is speaking to the in-class learners, it is hard to hear and understand them from home. Most students have the opportunity to have both an in-person class and a remote class, so they can retake notes and relearn topics. I don’t have that option, so I miss notes and important ideas.

Another issue is asking questions. If teachers forget about the remote class, they are unlikely to ask for questions. With the small delay on google meet, asking a question often results in talking over the teacher. Questions asked by in-class students are also hard to hear due to microphone quality.

One of the worst things about being a full-time online learner is the lack of human interaction. In some classes, I am the only remote learner. In-class discussions are almost impossible in these situations, and group projects could be difficult. Classes like chorus need me to do everything on my own, since it’s difficult to sing over google meet.

Despite the problems, I am happy that remote learning is offered as an option, and that it has improved so much from last year. I get to sit in on classes and actually talk to my teachers, and I feel safe at home. Waking up later is also a big plus, and it's great not having to wear a mask all day.

Overall, full remote learning will be a challenge, but things can be done to make it a better time for everyone. Better microphones could be used, and teachers could offer more opportunities to ask questions in class. Hopefully, over time, we will all be able to better adapt to this new style of school together.