It’s been a month since the lockdown began and numerous schools have taken learning into online platforms. One of the best outcomes for me was the education community coming together to support each other with resources – free resources! I am floored by the generosity surrounding us. 

But it’s not always easy to sift through the endless amount of resources being made available.

My first suggestion – the one I believe works incredibly well – is to create or join a network of teachers who can support each other. Having a community where you have teachers skilled in online teaching can be a really good resource. They can help answer any questions you might have. 

Secondly, if you struggle with online searches and sifting through online material, this tip is for you. Contact the publishing house of your preferred textbooks, and textbook distributors your school uses. Collins, MacMillan, McGraw Hill, Oxford University Press, Cambridge University Press, and more, are all making certain material available for free. Since they are from the publisher who created your preferred textbook, their material often supplements your existing lesson plans. Many publishers are making textbooks available online for a short period of time. 

Finally, if you are like me, and you like to explore the deluge of free or paid resources currently being made available to accommodate millions for learners across the globe, check out the following links: 

EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES

Twinkl has incredible homeschool plans/schedules and resources being made available for parents and teachers. Best for primary grades (ages 3 to 10) and includes Indian curriculum. 

MKE with Kids has curated a list of resources that I feel are best for primary grades as well. 

The Journal, the ed-technology magazine, curated and released an extensive list of free resources for teachers and students of all grade levels. 

LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

Seesaw is suitable for primary grades. It is student-centric and easy to use.  

Edmodo has a facebook feel and can be used across grades for communication, sharing videos and documents, and conducting quizzes. Middle graders would respond well to Edmodo. 

Google Classroom and G-Suite for Education for high school is currently the top education app being used by learners. This is most suitable for older learners in high school and beyond.

With an array of apps such as Google Docs, Google Slides, Google Sheets, Google Forms, Google Hangouts, Google Calendar, and of course, Gmail, they provide a comprehensive system for both synchronous and asynchronous learning opportunities. In addition, several add-ons are built in to customize and enhance their apps.

Do share the list of resources with any teacher or school that may benefit from it. If you or your school needs a hand in setting up the online classes, drop a line in the contact page.

The cohesion and camaraderie that a global crisis is building, in the face of generally negative media coverage, fills me with hope. Our learners are watching us and learning to build resilience and problem solving skills alongside us.