Many of the same problems of digital learning plagued her classes as well; group performances and playing together through Zoom was difficult if not impossible, and the perennial student attendance and attention issues have only been exacerbated by the digital landscape. But many students have new stresses, from their other classes and family at home. One of the most important things a teacher can do is simply be aware of this! Mrs.Moyer mentioned that one of her high school students had sixty assignments for one class. (A. Moyer, personal communication, February 12, 2021). Teachers in the digital landscape should be aware of the stress that students are under, both from school, and from home, as any of the distractions that exist at home are now present in the classroom. Awareness of student wellbeing is key to education during the pandemic.

While knowing and being aware of what stress students are under and what's happening, it is another entirely to be understanding and work with students despite them. While not every student has been suffering, as Mrs.Moyer noted that the more quiet and reserved students have done better in the digital environment than other students (A. Moyer, personal communication, February 12, 2021). Being understanding of how students may be struggling and facing digital instruction is key to handling teaching online. Mrs.Moyer also said that one of the worst things teachers can do is be “black-and-white” when dealing with students (A. Moyer, personal communication, February 12, 2021). Working with and listening to students creates a more well-rounded and hospitable environment which is key to teaching during the pandemic.

The final point Mrs.Moyer advised is to do the opposite: always assume the best of students and ask them questions. All that assuming negative things about students does is creates more issues, with students and possibly with their parents, and even administrators as well. She said one thing she’s done which helped her immensely is simply to talk with the students about what works and what doesn’t for instruction (A. Moyer, personal communication, February 12, 2021). This is the culmination of the previous two ideas; being understanding and aware of students lends itself to assuming the best and asking questions. I believe that mutual understanding is perhaps the most important factor when it comes to teaching effectively during the COVID-19 pandemic.