Teacher Speaks on the Success of Online Learning

Teacher Speaks on the Success of Online Learning

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Kelli Giebelhaus, teacher at St. Mary’s School, as well as, the Collaborative Response Coordinator for this school said overall the transition to online learning since the COVID- 19 pandemic has gone well. “We are very fortunate that our team of teachers and educational assistants are both motivated and adept in learning different technological platforms and programs. Our main platforms for delivery are Google Classroom and Canvas. Students have reported benefits to both programs. Because these programs provide such streamlined options, students can work through the content in a methodical and manageable manner,” Mrs. Giebelhaus said.

“Our teachers are very transparent with our students in terms of providing a week’s worth of content at the beginning of the week, so they can pace themselves and create a manageable schedule that they will be able to work through. In addition, students are then able to access their teachers and peers through scheduled weekly Google Meets. Furthermore, we also have Virtual Core Support for both junior and senior high students. This is a daily ‘help session’ where we have a scheduled teacher and educational assistants available where they can offer support to students in different subject areas. In addition, we are also very fortunate to have our Family Wellness Worker and Mental Health Capacity Building Coordinator continuing to work with families and students on an ongoing basis,” Giebelhaus mentioned.

Giebelhaus went on to say the advantages for teachers are that they can further their professional development and support each other as they navigate through different types of technology. “The disadvantages are the added stress/workload required. It is actually quite miraculous that our teachers were able to navigate through unchartered waters and learn how to transition their courses online in a matter of a week,” Giebelhaus said. “The advantages of online learning are that students are able to relatively learn at their own pace. In addition, they are able to attend Google Meets with their classes as well as watch tutorials/Google Meet recordings at a later time. In many ways, this provides more flexibility in students’ schedules.”

When Giebelhaus was asked how the school made up for the lack of social contact and learning opportunities students gain from field trips, events, and just being around other people, she replied, “Because our school district has provided such a strong focus on connection, our staff is keen on providing opportunities for students to continue to be part of our larger school community. We are fortunate to have a staff who engages in and promotes spirit days, mental health awareness days, and we are continuing to find ways to celebrate our current Grade 12s as their original graduation celebration nears. As a child psychologist, Dr. Jody Carrington says: “We are wired for connection.” If we adhere to this mindset, we will continue to work through these challenging times as a family,” Giebelhaus added.