This has also provided an opportunity to strengthen themselves emotionally and socially with an increasing, almost obligatory, parental involvement.
Children, all over the world, will definitely be affected by the current situation as the planned curriculum targets might not be met by all concerned. However, these targets need to be evaluated, re-adjusted and re-adapted in line with the newly acquired learning skills and experience.
Those students capable of facing challenges might achieve the targets set for this period of time whereas some will require additional support, thus a higher dependency on their parents or guardians. Carers need to work with the educators so that they support their children accordingly and in line with their ability. Force feeding and/ or doing their work creates instability, insecurity, fear and can hamper their learning process. During these times, children need reassurance and the comfort that the home environment can provide to ensure that everyone is safe and protected.
Parents should encourage opportunities for virtual social gatherings with friends and family members, where children can play together with their toys or just talk, read to each other, which does not necessarily require direct face-screen time. Time away from the screen is highly recommended.
The absence of parents or guardians impends the child’s development and the ability to support the balanced and confident individual. This period of self-isolation should be seen as an opportunity for careers to strengthen their bonds with their children, know them better and it encourages direct parental involvement, which was previously considered by parents as optional. Parental engagement is a necessity, in any given circumstance.
As a qualified and experienced teacher, I find teaching online challenging because it is a profession that demands and values the human element and direct interaction. In order to support the child, a teacher needs to use all five senses and therefore, the main challenge is the lack of teacher-student contact. I find gauging a child’s disposition and body language are not all that apparent when working at a distance. Sometimes, trying to talk things over or communicating our feelings to a screen does not help alleviate the tension of stress caused in the daily activities within the children’s day-to-day challenges.
Salima Kassamo
For any questions, comments, ideas or proposal of themes to write about or discuss, please contact Aga Khan Education Board by [email protected]
