GAPS in ARTS INSTRUCTION

The crisis teaching that occurred in Spring, 2020 had many varied challenges. Arts teachers attempted to engage with students with limited time to prepare, and were thwarted by issues such as health, safety, digital access challenges including both device and issues of connectivity for remote learning. Many times, a conscious choice was made to focus attention on learning activities in subject areas which receive consideration on state-wide assessments, and thereby students were even more distanced from the arts.

High student caseloads, and guidelines to minimize "screen time" for learners meant some arts teachers did not have much of an opportunity to interact with students at all. In these extraordinary circumstances there was a desire to minimize stress for students and parents, and student access to arts content and instruction was severely curtailed. Teachers using paper "packets" reported low student engagement, and logistical challenges of delivery and safe handling.

Navigating a path uncover lost learning, while remaining mindful of health and safety guidelines, and with limitations on access to students could be a great challenge in the coming months. Preparing multiple contingency plans will enable arts educators to quickly pivot their instruction if needed.

Information about Blended Learning Models which may apply to both distance learning and modified in-person learning settings may be found on the Distance Learning Page.