Quarantine and Distance Learning – Challenging and Rewarding
On the positive side, I have learnt new technology e.g. using zooms for online lessons and Microsoft teams to chat with teachers and other students about homework and these cool technologies allowed me to attend classes in different locations while we are not able to attend classes face to face. I am able to keep learning while in Hong Kong and also when I am in quarantine in Sydney. I also have had the chance to connect with my family during this time as well – I value the comfort and support that only parents can provide at this time. However, I did encounter some difficulties while I am doing distance learning. Some of the difficulties include time zone differences as Hong Kong is 2 hours behind Sydney so for early lessons, I find it hard to interact well with my teachers and classmates due to local noise control requirements.
I am also worried initially about my academics now that physical teaching and tutoring has to be stopped as we transition to online learning. However, Shore has a very systematic distance learning plan and everyone at Shore is focused on making this difficult period as effective as possible for all students. For example, the teacher librarians are willing to sacrifice their leisure time after school hours and offer support to students who may be struggling with organization in terms of distance learning (and different librarians have all been assigned to different houses). In addition, , Shore is offering additional support for boys in Year 11 and Year 12 with online tutoring delivered by Old Boys. This is a great opportunity to learn challenging concepts as we are fortunate enough to have the 2019 group happy to give us a hand with getting through online learning by sharing notes, essays and whatever they think (or we think) that can help us go through this time of uncertainty and maintain our strong academic results as a community. The measures implemented greatly improve my general wellbeing and help me to organize my work during this stressful time in a more disciplined way. My tutor Mr Hogan also offered to support us by providing us with a pastoral outlet and communication as frequent as possible. Reaching out during tutor groups or possibly in person to discuss the main concerns and frustrations and where possible provide practical advice and strategies help us to overcome our daily challenges. I feel so blessed having many great people around to help out when I am in need.
However, I still prefer face to face teaching and tutoring as I can have more interaction with people. Luckily, this is happening … now that year 12 is the first year group to go back to school full-time. As my time in self-isolation ends soon, I wish to reconnect with everyone in the boarding house.
