Virtual Learning Plan

2019-2020

 


 

OVERVIEW

What is Virtual Learning?

Virtual learning is using technology for teaching and learning outside of the traditional classroom setting, enabling learning to take place anytime and anywhere and not requiring the instructor and the students to be together. Virtual learning can be guided or unguided, synchronous or asynchronous. These experiences may include:
  • Pre-recorded video lessons, generated by the teacher or available through resources such as Khan Academy, YouTube, and TED Talks.
  • Assignments utilizing online textbook access or open education resources.
  • Discussion boards and other interactive forums.
  • Interactive activities available through third-party services such as Quizlet, Khan Academy, Duolingo, and Edpuzzle.
  • Remote conferencing via video/audio through services such as Canvas or Zoom.

When will students participate in Virtual Learning Days?

Students will participate in Virtual Learning Days when it is deemed necessary by school administration and/or government authorities.

What is the value of Virtual Learning Days?

Virtual learning days help to continue student learning when the face-to-face learning environment is not possible.

How will students and parents be notified if a Virtual Learning Day will be used in the event of an emergency school closing?

Families and students will be notified by instant alert and website announcements.

What are the expected methods of communication between teachers and students on Virtual Learning Days?

Teachers and students will continue to communicate using the existing, approved channels, in particular school email addresses and Canvas messages.

Do Virtual Learning Days count as school days?

Yes. So long as Virtual Learning Days are conducted in accordance with Diocesan standards, Virtual Learning Days count toward the total number of school days and do not need to be “made up” throughout the year or at the end of the school year.

THE VIRTUAL LEARNING EXPERIENCE

What will a Virtual Learning Day look like for students?

Each teacher will post information about his/her virtual lessons on Canvas. Teachers have been asked to provide students with at least several days’ worth of plans so that students can plan their time accordingly. Virtual learning days may be different for each student and may vary day-to-day. Some days students will engage in live videoconferences, other days they will view a video lesson, other days they will complete readings or assignments, and other days they will take a quiz or test online.

What kinds of assessments/assignments can students expect on virtual learning days?

Assessments/assignments may take many forms such as electronic tests, quizzes, surveys and polls, essays, audio or video recordings, EdPuzzle, meaningful contributions to discussion boards, and interactive assignments on sites such as Duolingo or Khan Academy. Each teacher will provide information regarding the grading for each assessment.

Teachers will also provide a due date for each assignment. Teachers are encouraged to give students multiple days to complete assignments that are not quizzes or tests in order that they be able to manage their multiple classes, seek additional help when necessary, and submit high-quality work.

Videoconferences that are mandatory and assessments that are restricted to a short window of time shall be scheduled during the times corresponding to the normal class period so as not to conflict with other classes.

How often does a student need to log in on Virtual Learning Days?

Students are expected to log in every Virtual Learning Day, which means checking their email/Canvas announcements for assignments and videoconference information. This action is necessary for students to connect with their teachers each day. Teachers will be communicating with students in many ways, not just sharing assignments. Students are responsible for receiving that communication from their teacher.

What are the expectations for student behavior?

Students will be accountable for all applicable school and classroom rules during virtual learning. For example: academic integrity, appropriate language during videoconferences, bullying/harassment/intimidation.

What if a student has questions or needs assistance during a Virtual Learning Day?

If a student has a question regarding a virtual lesson or assignment, the student/parent should contact the teacher via email. Teachers have been be asked to check their email on a regular basis throughout the day in case student issues arise.

Tech Support

What if a student has a problem with technology during Virtual Learning Days?

If a student is having a problem with Canvas, he/she should contact [email protected].

If a student is having a problem with PowerSchool, he/she should contact [email protected].

If a student is having a problem with school email (Google), he/she should contact [email protected].

Guidance/Counseling Services

Will Guidance Counselors be available on Virtual Learning Days?

On Virtual Learning Days, the school counselors will be available. To the best of their ability, counselors will continue to provide academic and mental health support.

If a student is having an urgent mental health issue, he/she should contact a mental health service immediately:

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NJ Hope Line (suicide prevention)

1 (855)-654-6735

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1 (855) 652-3737
 

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National Suicide Hotline 
1 800-273-8255

NJ Mental Health Cares 
1-866-202-HELP (4357)

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IME Addictions Access Center

1-844-276-2777