#remote learning

[commonsensecommentary]

“The current model of higher education, one featuring runaway spending and punitive intellectual rigidity, cannot survive.”

[eretzyisrael]

Source

[cosplayinamerica]

Writer : Amy Densham

Whether your kids live in rural Iowa or downtown NYC. If they have cosplaying parents or only they just learned about Halloween. Astrid and Leah bring that excited, welcoming, Con energy to their student’s computer screens all over the world.

The platform is Outschool. It’s been around since 2015 and started as a go-to for homeschoolers. During the  COVID-19 pandemic, Outschool grew beyond homeschooling. It became a place for learning and socializing whether you homeschool or not. Now serving over 1 million learners in 195 countries, Outschool has thousands of classes for ages 3 - 18. Learn about dinosaurs from a paleontologist. C# coding from a game developer. Or cosplay from an expert seamstress and a professional actress.

Astrid Turner, bubbly and all smiles, remembers standing in line at a Con: “The cosplay community is one of the most supportive and wonderful communities out there. When I cosplay, it’s not attention on me. It’s attention for something we share. We already know we like the same things. The craftsmanship, the idea that you’re there together, dressed up, having an experience together.”

Astrid teaches Cosplay Costume Design and Creation Workshops and anything else costume-related (just send her a request). She can pleat a skirt, put a bodice in, and bring kids out of their shells with ease. Part of her class includes real-world skills like comparison shopping; if you’re asking mom to buy it, you need to have a plan.

What does Astrid hope her students walk away with from taking her class ? Ask about her experience teaching online classese.

With a classroom maximum of 5, Astrid gives personalized attention to all of her students. Some enroll with a  clear costume vision. Others just love Anime. Either way, Astrid helps them follow their own creativity and make it a reality.

Do they need a sketch? No problem. Does the fabric need to be washable? She knows just the thing. And costumes are just the beginning. Her eyes light up when she talks about intuitive, introverted students growing and connecting as the weeks go by. Someone who barely spoke in their first class is now the first one to share their progress and welcome a new student. They find their people and their voice.

Leah Johnson, artful and confident, talks about her experience at Cons: “It feels like everyone is a family. They want to welcome you in. It’s an excitement of sharing. Always. Of what they’ve made, what they’ve done, other cons that they’ve gone to, and people they’ve met. Everyone there wants to inspire each other.”

Leah teaches Special FX, Halloween, and Cosplay Makeup or one-on-one classes by request. Some of her students want to become professional makeup artists. Some want to scare their grandmas with fake wounds. In both situations, Leah is raring to go! And so is her washable Mehron Practice Makeup Head - currently sporting terrifying clown makeup from her last class.

Every class is unique. Some learners pop in with full, top-of-the-line makeup kits and some join with leftovers from the makeup wearer in their house. Part of the fun for Leah and her students is figuring out how to create looks with what you’ve got. It’s a great life lesson too. Sometimes you’ll need a specific product but sometimes you just need to be resourceful. Leah playfully refers to it as preparing for the zombie apocalypse when you won’t have all the tools. Her personality beams through the screen as she uses her makeup head to show makeup techniques, up close, and with student-requested variations. For Leah, the online part wasn’t her favorite. There’s an unquantifiable distance when you’re interacting online. You aren’t in the same space. It’s not the same as in person. But she makes that work too. And it’s a small inconvenience compared to the big benefit: bringing creative, accepting spaces to students wherever they are in the world.

Every class is unique. Some learners pop in with full, top-of-the-line makeup kits and some join with leftovers from the makeup wearer in their house. Part of the fun for Leah and her students is figuring out how to create looks with what you’ve got. It’s a great life lesson too. Sometimes you’ll need a specific product but sometimes you just need to be resourceful. Leah playfully refers to it as preparing for the zombie apocalypse when you won’t have all the tools. Her personality beams through the screen as she uses her makeup head to show makeup techniques, up close, and with student-requested variations. For Leah, the online part wasn’t her favorite. There’s an unquantifiable distance when you’re interacting online. You aren’t in the same space. It’s not the same as in person. But she makes that work too. And it’s a small inconvenience compared to the big benefit: bringing creative, accepting spaces to students wherever they are in the world.

HOW IT STARTED

Astrid and Leah both grew up loving costumes but they didn’t find out about cosplay until much later. In each of their separate hometowns, they were that kid in full costume at the grocery store. Or decked out like crazy on Halloween. Sound familiar?

Astrid remembers her first Ren Faire: “My first costume was a disaster but I was so proud of it! Ever since then, I knew I wanted to make costumes.” Growing up in a rural area outside LA, she always wanted to go to the San Diego Comic-Con but she didn’t have anyone to go with and didn’t want to go by herself. None of her friends were cosplayers - a term she didn’t even know existed.

She taught herself to sew, learning by creating more and more complex projects. Elaborate Elizabethan gowns with striking details for the next faire.

As she grew older, Atrid took a detour, exploring other career paths but she came back to sewing when her kids were small. Making clothes and costumes for them brought back that magic. And the internet showed her there was a whole community out there. No longer the only cosplayer in town, she dove in head first.

Now Astrid and her 3 kids (ages 13, 10, and 7) attend Cons every chance they get. In full costume, of course. She enters competitions in the handmade category and, though she’s modest, has taken home more than one win. In middle school, Astrid was big into theatre, Shakespeare, and creating Renaissance costumes.

An actor, director, voiceover artist, and singer, Leah cosplays characters from Arwen to Cruella De Vil to Mary Poppins. She teaches makeup and cosplay on Outschool but does both professionally for film, theatre, and events. To name a few, she designed costumes for the TV show Kookville and a stage production of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. She even did makeup and created costumes for the movie Demon Squad, which you can find in Season 13 of Mystery Science Theatre 3000. She believes that cosplay isn’t just about expressing yourself, it’s about developing yourself and creating a full aesthetic. Beyond that, she wants her students to know, they can make a career out of their creative passions. And she’ll help them do it.

Leah talks about her first Ren Faire experience: “It felt awesome because I was trying to be intentional about creating a costume for me. Not for a play. Not for someone else based on their vision. It was my vision. It was what I wanted to do.”

You feel different in your cosplay. The persona, the confidence. It can be hard to describe but Astrid and Leah teach toward that feeling in every class.

Specializing in Elizabethan and Italian Renaissance costumes, Astrid also cosplays Collei from Gensin Impact and loves growing her skills in the anime genre. She even runs a social club on Outschool where Genshin fans can hang out virtually and game together.

Astrid beams: “A lot of kids and adults choose a character and they try to match that persona. It’s a little bit of safety. I’ve had people scream ‘OH MY GOD ITS COLLEI’ and run over to me. Under normal circumstances that wouldn’t happen. But at Cons, it’s so exciting. It’s amazing to connect with other people through that persona.”

*** Leah, with her cosplay weapon collection behind her: “You feel more confident in your character’s costume. It’s a projection of your best self. A lot of work, your imagination, and your brain is now projected on the outside. People can see that part of you that they can’t see in any other situation.”

Leading by example, Leah shows her students that they can make their creative passions into careers. She beams when she talks about a student getting confident enough to make an Actor Instagram account. Or doing professional-level wedding makeup for their entire family.

Teaching online from Arkansas since 2018, Astrid volunteered for the first-ever Outschool Cosplay Convention in 2021. Now called GameCon, the 2-day event featured presentations at different times of day for different timezones. Sessions about costume design, makeup, theatre performance, and more. And, most exciting of all, the costume showcase. Every kid got a chance in the spotlight to show off their creations. Astrid, laughs now: “I burst into tears when I logged off. It was such a rush of emotions. I found my people! I wish I had this when I was a kid.”

***

[rebeccathenaturalist]

Hey, I have room in both of my ONLINE natural history classes for this week! You don't have to be enrolled at either of these community colleges; the classes are open to anyone who wants to take them, even if you have no previous experience, and there are no prerequisites. Here's what's on tap:

Pacific Northwest Geology (One Day Class)

What are you standing on? The Pacific Northwest is full of geological history of all sorts, from volcanoes to floods to ancient islands from far off in the ocean. Learn about some of the forces that created our region’s landforms, and resources to go exploring on your own! (Has some material overlap with the Ecoregions of Oregon class.)

Tuesday, February 28, 6:00pm – 7:30pm PST, Tacoma Community College, ONLINE – Register here

Foraging in the Pacific Northwest (One Day Class)

The Pacific Northwest is plentiful with wild edible plants and fungi. Learn the basics of identifying common edible flowers and plants, some even found in your backyard! Identify their poisonous look-alikes, and learn ways to prepare what you collect in your own kitchen. Please note there is some crossover material with the mushroom hunting class.

Wednesday, March 1, 6:00pm – 8:30pm PST, Mt. Hood Community College, ONLINE – Register here

[187days]

Day One Hundred Thirty-Eight

We had remote school today, but not really because the storm dumped rain, then ice, then wet, heavy snow all night and all day. So that brought down tree branches- and whole trees- all over the place, including around my apartment (woke up to a giant branch falling on the power lines around 5:30AM). Somehow, I still had power, but then a bunch more branches came down, hit the poles, wham!

Luckily, I'd told all my students what their instructions would be and posted everything to Classroom yesterday. Plus, I could still email, and even managed to use my phone to hold brief Google Meets with each of my classes (The Principal obviously waived that expectation today, but I figured I'd attempt it anyways because routines are helpful). After checking in via Meet and asking any clarifying questions about the day's expectations, my ninth graders kept doing what they've been doing all week: reading their books, drafting their current events-write ups. My seniors had to tell me about the struggle to get the Civil Rights Act of 1964 through Congress, then read Malcolm X's "The Ballot or the Bullet" in preparation for a discussion about it and King's "Letter from Birmingham Jail."

I was originally planning on having that discussion tomorrow, but I emailed my students to let them know that I'm going to reschedule it for Tuesday in order to ensure that everyone's prepared. There's a chance we'll end up having another remote learning day tomorrow anyhow. At the very least, we'll have a delayed opening, and I don't want to rush a through discussion in a shortened block.

So, yeah, embracing the change. Adaptability and flexibility are two very key skills of teaching!

[mtm-college]

Ready to learn some new art skills? 🧐

Check out MTM College's amazing lineup of 🌷 SPRING Workshops!

To Register, visit: https://mtmcollege.ca/art-workshops-toronto/

[trinitycove]

I love online classes. I can attend in whatever state of sloppiness I choose without getting called out. I can make myself a little lunch to eat while the instructor lectures. I can begin my assignments as they are being explained to me. Everything is done through a computer including phone calls and meetings with the school staff. And I can roam my home freely during my lecture in case I run out of tea or have bathroom emergencies simply by joining the meeting on my phone and using my headphones. We are never on camera and always on mute.

[kindly-whisper-norbury]

Google Meet is just so passive aggressive.

[jhsharman]

Now it's 2021

This received a smidgen of attention in light of the coronavirus and its result in, as the story specifically had it, remote learning. For the specified the comic book got it right -- relaying the mass high school student experience of 2021. And I suppose the one thing you can suggest is the writer -- George Glaidir -- did not bite off too much -- in 1996, telecommuting was coming into being. There aren't any moon colonies that abound.

On the other accruements of this retro-future -- the fashion will have to wait. What's the green ooze they are drinking? And -- hey! The all seeing eye! That one they may have gotten right.

[wweasleyhp]

Twenty Eighth Week Of Year 10

This week I didn't go to school on Wednesday and Thursday because they were strike days so I did remote learning. Also, it was Red Nose Day on Friday and my school was doing a bake sale and the cakes were delicious. Anyways, stay tuned for some more posts!

[richardtheteacher]

How to Manage a Hybrid Classroom Effectively

Hybrid teaching seems set to stay for many years to come. Find out to to manage your remote classroom effectively with these great tips. [Richard James Rogers' blog for teachers].

Hybrid teaching is here to stay – at least for the time-being (and probably long into the future). It is therefore crucial for educators everywhere to keep their hybrid-teaching skills in tip top shape.  Today, I’ve invited Kiara Miller from The Speakingnerd to share her excellent suggestions on how teachers can effectively manage their hybrid classrooms. Kiara Miller The pandemic, coupled with…

[sarita-daniele]

I’m hoping to fill two spots in an online writing class for teens, happening next week! In this class I teach teen fanfic writers how to translate their skills into original fiction. We’ll geek out all week. :) 

https://bit.ly/3y5KdqB

[prabhatjairam]

Education and Remote Learning in a Digital World

Moving from regular classrooms to online learning has completely changed how we do school. Now, students and teachers aren't limited by where they live or by the physical walls of a building. Instead, they're exploring a huge digital world of learning. This new way of learning brings both exciting opportunities and some tricky problems. It's like stepping into a whole new world of education!

As we jump into this digital education world, it's important to understand how remote learning affects everything. It's not just about using fancy technology – it's about changing the way we teach, talk to each other, and make learning available to everyone. Remote learning breaks down the old rules of school, giving us a glimpse into a future where learning can happen anytime, anywhere. In this article, we'll dive into the details of how education is changing in this digital era, and what it means for students, teachers, and society as a whole.

The Digital Classroom: Beyond Brick and Mortar

Gone are the days of traditional classroom settings confined within four walls. Remote learning shattered these boundaries, ushering in a digital era where learning knows no geographical limitations. Students connect with educators from across the globe, gaining access to a wealth of knowledge previously unimaginable. The virtual classroom transcends physical barriers, fostering inclusivity and diversity, and enriching educational experiences for all.

Empowering Learners: A Paradigm Shift

Remote learning isn't merely a temporary fix; it signifies a paradigm shift in education. It empowers learners to take ownership of their education, fostering self-directed learning and critical thinking skills. With a plethora of online resources at their fingertips, students embark on personalized learning journeys tailored to their interests and aspirations. The autonomy afforded by remote learning cultivates resilience and adaptability, equipping students with indispensable skills for the future workforce.

Moreover, remote learning dismantles the rigid structures of traditional education, accommodating diverse learning styles and preferences. Visual learners thrive amidst multimedia presentations, while auditory learners benefit from recorded lectures. Flexibility becomes the cornerstone of education, accommodating the individual needs of each student.

Challenges and Adaptations

However, there are problems with online learning. Teachers are finding it hard to use technology, and not all students have the right equipment or internet. Learning from home can be distracting, and not seeing classmates or teachers makes it feel lonely. Also, not everyone has the same access to technology, which makes it harder for some students to learn.

But challenges can lead to new ideas. Teachers are finding new ways to use technology for better lessons. Things like virtual simulations and games are making learning more interesting. This shows how technology can change learning, making it better for everyone.

"While remote learning reshapes education, Study24hr.com emerges as a cornerstone of accessible, quality learning experiences. With its vast library of courses covering a multitude of subjects, from programming to digital marketing, Study24hr.com offers individuals the opportunity to upskill, reskill, or explore new passions from anywhere in the world. Its user-friendly platform, expert instructors, and flexible scheduling make it an invaluable resource for students, educators, and professionals alike, bridging the gap between traditional education and the digital age."

The Human Touch: Nurturing Connection in a Virtual World

Amidst the digital landscape, the human connection remains paramount. Educators transcend the confines of screens, fostering meaningful relationships with their students. Empathy, compassion, and understanding permeate virtual interactions, creating a nurturing environment conducive to learning. Beyond imparting knowledge, educators serve as mentors, guiding students on their educational journey, and instilling a lifelong love for learning.

Looking Ahead: Embracing the Future

As we navigate the uncertain terrain of education in a digital world, one thing remains clear: adaptability is key. Remote learning catalyzed a revolution, redefining the boundaries of education and paving the way for a more inclusive, accessible future. By harnessing the power of technology, embracing innovation, and nurturing human connections, we embark on a journey toward educational equity and excellence.

In this digital age, the possibilities are limitless. Let us seize this opportunity to shape the future of education, empowering learners to thrive in a world brimming with possibilities. Together, we embark on a transformative journey, navigating the future of education with resilience, creativity, and unwavering determination.

[gitzette]

Dive into "The View's Role During the Pandemic: Insights & Impact". Discover how Whoopi, Sunny, and the team turned difficult discussions on mental health, remote learning, and pandemic challenges into a source of strength for viewers. Don't miss the insights on how The View became a beacon of support and information during these unprecedented times. #TheView #PandemicSupport

[187days]

Day One Hundred Thirty-Nine

The storm passed this morning, but it's still so messy- and so much of the region is without power or passable roads- that we had another day of remote learning.

My freshmen had to finish their current events write-ups and keep reading their books. I also suggested that they take some time to prepare for the unit content quiz, which I'm going to give next Tuesday. I originally planned to give it after they wrote their book papers, but there are some things going on the week after next that will mess with the schedule, so this is easier.

Adaptability and flexibility!

I posted an article about voting rights for my students to read- history from the Seneca Falls Convention, to the ratification of the 15th and 19th Amendments, to the Mississippi Summer Project- and also posted a powerful excerpt from PBS' Freedom Summer (about the murders of Michael Schwerner, Andrew Goodman, and James Chaney) for them to watch. We'll talk about it, and about what happened afterwards, on Monday.

What else did I do? Graded all the work that came in, finished drafting my department's schedules for next year, planned a few upcoming lessons. It's quieter and slower-paced than a day in my classroom, but it's still productive!

[mtm-college]

MTM College's 🌷 SPRING Workshops are here! 🌷

Starting APRIL 8 - We are offering our popular ANIMATION BASICS workshop again with Instructor Keith Fukumoto⭐️

Type: Online Workshop Dates: April 8th – June 10th Schedule: Monday’s 5-7pm EST Visit https://mtmcollege.ca/art-workshops-toronto/⭐️ to LEARN MORE !!