This is not genuine, you might have read it elsewhere on how to keep in touch during a pandemic or maintain the relationship with your students remotely, something like that. I consider the articles I have read interesting and perhaps I should record my thoughts on it. I will link the articles I have referred to by the end of the post. 

What does it suggest, holding hearts?

In our tangible classroom, we meet and greet our students. We project emotions; we anticipate responses and we expect feedback. The same goes for online learning. However, emotions are not clearly expressed by emoji and words, let alone being felt. And feedback...

Let's retrace our steps. Before the tasks are assigned, what did we do? Did we merely instruct? Did we give orders? Or simply just a hand over of task? 

We have to understand that the transition from school to home is not easy, let alone is not an enjoyable one. Our students might have a myriad of things to do at home before possessing the time to attend to their learning. They might barely receive the support they require from their parents to accomplish their tasks. Overwhelming!

I think it is not too late to consider this. To hold their hearts. To let them know that we are here, and we care. We care so much about their mental well being, about their challenges and their learning in this new environment. 

So here go, three ways you can hold your students' heart.

1. To broadcast good morning video every school day. 

In Malaysia, we have a programme called "Guru Penyayang" or simply Loving Teacher programme. One of the initiatives is to greet students upon arrival. To wish them a great day ahead and to acknowledge their presence at school on that day. A similar principle goes for a remote classroom. We can say hi, or simply share our morning in a one-minute video. It comforts the students to identify that their teacher is there, ready and accessible for learning to take place. 

2. Make a video call.

Make the effort to call students sometimes, to talk to them and see how they are doing. We can focus the conversation on their daily life so that we can understand their learning challenges. It can be a one-to-one conversation or a small group video call, it depends. Just checking on them like we habitually do at school. 

3. Connect with their world.

Instead of having them perform the task you have given, how about them assigning you something? Or have a class challenge out of the school task? For example, showcasing secret talent, learning a song then performing together online or a photo contest? Students are creative, they can throw you a challenge without much thought. The key point is to have fun together. 



As promised, these are the articles I've read. 

7 Ways to Maintain Relationships During Your School Closure by Sarah Gonser
4 ways COVID-19 could change how we educate future generations
How to stay creative and keep your family sane during lockdown – from one of the world’s best teachers