What We Learnt When Learning From Home

Over the last decade, we have seen the online delivery of education dip it’s toe in the water. Ten years ago, I started delivering VCE courses online through Edrolo, and over the past decade, have seen an evolution in how young people learn, the pace at which they learn, and the individuality in the way they go about their learning. Compared to the behaviours we as parents and educators experienced when we were young, children today buy music differently, communicate differently, shop differently, and earn money differently, so why not learn differently too? This year, education went from dipping our toes in the online learning water, to jumping in headfirst and fully clothed!

As I reflect on how quickly the education world needed to adapt to overcome the challenges that have been thrown at us, I have often wondered if this is just the disruption we need. There was much we were ready for when moving to a remote and online learning environment, but there was also so much that we couldn’t predict. Here are the five things that impressed us the most:

1. Our teachers adapted fast

As teachers, we get constant feedback when we teach a live class; hands in the air, nods of approval, smiles, worried or confused faces, and even eye rolls. Moving online saw the disappearance of much of that feedback. Teachers learnt to adjust to this fast, and they learnt to apply their teaching expertise into a new context with the most frequently heard phrase from staff….. “That wasn’t as hard as I thought.”

2. 146 years of history moved online in a day

It’s funny how we define a school. Toorak is often described by its traditions, its buildings, and its beloved ivy. But that is not what defines us, and we found proof overnight that a school is its people. To seamlessly transition our rich educational program online in the snap of our fingers was empowering, liberating and something we should all be immensely proud of.

3. Our students led the charge in the quest for connection

We always say that we can learn so much from young people, and it was our student’s social networking expertise and their digital prowess that became one of our greatest resources. They ran dress-up days, themed celebrations, played games, started chat groups, and showed us how to connect with each other in this new environment.

4. Parents loved seeing learning in action

It turns out that parent-teacher interviews, reports, and share assemblies do not do our learning program justice. Many parents shared with us how impressed they were with what their children could do, the skills that they possess and their love for learning. Many parents also marvelled at how teachers bring the experience of learning to life. It has been a joy sharing our learning program with you and having you see what we have the privilege to see each day.

5. Toorak College is a true community

We often talk about the spirit that binds us all at Toorak, but in a time where we needed it the most, the community was right here. From messages of support and offering to help one another, through to embracing new experiences and being optimistic that we could do this, our community united. So, thank you. This will be a memorable moment in our School’s history, not for what was lost, but for what was gained.

Mrs Kristy Kendall - Principal