Instructional Options

Virtual/Online Education: Instruction via the internet

Considerations and questions for school teams:

• What does instructional practice look like using this format?

• Are hardware and software provided to students and staff? Are internet access and computers provided to students at no cost?

• Is there staff capacity? Do staff have time to develop and conduct instruction online?

• Students with IEPs are entitled to be educated with non-disabled peers in the Least Restrictive Environment - what does that look like in an online environment?

• Can a parent or family member serve in the role of a facilitator of online learning?

Independent Study: An educational activity undertaken by an individual with little to no supervision; students could work from packets of hard copy resources and related materials

Considerations and questions for school teams:(see all questions from Virtual/Online education above)

• Can the student work independently?

• Will the student be able to meet their goals using this format?

• How will teachers know the student is successful?

• How will progress monitoring be obtained and reviewed?

Blended Learning or Hybrid Education: Instruction which includes a combination of online education and some other format

Considerations and questions for school teams: (See all questions from Virtual/Online Education above)

• How will regular education, special education, and related service personnel collaborate to prepare for this type of service delivery?

• How will teachers know the student is successful?

• How will progress monitoring be obtained and reviewed?

Consider the appropriateness of an alternate service delivery model in meeting the needs of the student.

• Survey families to identify if families have access to WiFi and devices for their child with special needs to access remote learning.

• Create a plan to assist family with access to the internet and/or devices.

• Create alternate plans to provide instruction via telephone conference, paper educational resources, etc.

• Consider providing all students with a device (ie. Chromebook) if they do not already have access to one at home.

• Low incidence students may need alternative devices or service delivery models to engage in instruction

• Survey your employees to ensure they have access to wifi, devices, and needed supplies at home.

• Provide professional development and guidance for employees on how to provide remote resources and be a support system for the students and families.

• When planning for remote learning for students with special needs, assist teachers by setting up a daily schedule/routine for short duration of instruction (10-35 minutes) throughout the school day.

• Instruct teachers to put lessons together for a predetermined duration so that activities, lessons, and resources are available online.