Ways to help keep children learning during the pandemic

he coronavirus pandemic has upended family life around Take your time the world. School closures, working remotely, physical Start with shorter learning sessions and make them distancing — it’s a lot to navigate for parents to navigate. T progressively longer. If the goal is to have a 30- or 45-minute Robert Jenkins, UNICEF’s Global Chief of Education, offers five session, start with 10 minutes and build up from there. Within tips to help keep children’s education on track while they’re a session, combine online or screen time with offline activities staying home. or exercises.

Plan a routine together Protect children online Try to establish a routine that factors in age-appropriate Digital platforms provide an opportunity for children to education programmes that can be followed online, on keep learning, take part in play and keep in touch with their the television or through the radio. Also, factor in play time friends. But increased access online brings heightened risks for and time for reading. Use everyday activities as learning children’s safety, protection and privacy. Discuss the Internet opportunities for your children. And don’t forget to come up with your children so that they know how it works, what they with these plans together where possible. need to be aware of, and what appropriate behavior looks like Although establishing a routine and structure is critically on the platforms they use, such as video calls. important for children and young people, in these times you Establish rules together about how, when and where the may notice your children need some level of flexibility. Switch internet can be used. Set up parental controls on their devices up your activities. If your child looks restless and agitated to mitigate online risks, particularly for younger children. when you’re trying to follow an online learning programme Identify appropriate online tools for recreation together with them, flip to a more active option. Do not forget that ONLINE EDUCATION - organizations like Common Sense Media offer advice for age- planning and doing house chores together safely is great for appropriate apps, games and other online entertainment. In DURING THE PANDEMIC development of fine and gross motor functions. Try and stay case of cyberbullying or an incident of inappropriate content Supplements Team as attuned to their needs as possible. online, be familiar with school and other local reporting Advertising & Marketing Manager mechanisms, keeping numbers of support helplines and Have open conversations Hassan Ali Anwari hotlines handy. Supplement Editor Encourage your children to ask questions and express Don’t forget that there’s no need for children or young Pradeep their feelings with you. Remember that your child may have people to share pictures of themselves or other personal Sr. Business Development Manager different reactions to stress, so be patient and understanding. information to access digital learning. Sanjai Noah Start by inviting your child to talk about the issue. Find out Layout / Graphics how much they already know and follow their lead. Discuss Stay in touch with your children’s education A.K. Vinay Kumar good hygiene practices. You can use everyday moments to reinforce the importance of things like regular and thorough facility Advertising Office handwashing. Make sure you are in a safe environment and Find out how to stay in touch with your children’s teacher Gulf Times/Arrayah Building, C Ring Road, allow your child to talk freely. Drawing, stories and other or school to stay informed, ask questions and get more P.O. Box 533, Doha Qatar activities may help to open a discussion. Tel: (+974) 44466620 guidance. Parent groups or community groups can also be a Fax: (+974) 44310992 Try not to minimize or avoid their good way to support each other with your home schooling. email: [email protected] concerns. Be sure to acknowledge their feelings and assure them that it’s natural to feel scared about these things. Demonstrate that you’re listening by giving them your full attention, and make sure they understand that they can talk to you and their teachers whenever they like. Warn them about fake news and encourage them – and remind yourselves – to use trusted sources of information such as UNICEF guidance.

ONLINE EDUCATION 3 DURING THE PANDEMIC One of the outdoor quad areas at the new Al Wajba Campus, opening September 2020

Doha College Educating, nurturing and inspiring

oha College is one of the world’s leading British ambitiously steering in the same direction. One of the in the classroom. The success of this concerted effort International Schools, educating students between critical facets of the college’s remote learning success has been evidenced across the whole school with Dthe ages of 3 to 18. Its achievements in the has been the strong and much vaunted educational exceptionally high engagement levels, and the innovative fields of academia, sport and the arts are outstanding. triangle between students, parents and teachers, all future-orientated adaptation of student learning to these The college’s new state-of-the-art campus, and its working purposefully towards delivering an education new circumstances. exceptional teaching team reflect the unwavering pursuit that is as enjoyable and yielding as it would have been of excellence. The student leadership group (Head Boy/ Head Girl, their deputies and the team of prefects) are strong leaders of their teams and the entire student body. All students of the college are consulted on a regular basis and, as a result, influential in shaping the approach to learning. A Doha College education reaches far beyond the curriculum: Students are educated as global citizens, who listen, take responsibility, respect others and have the confidence to stand up and be heard. Established in 1980 and celebrating 40 years of excellence in education in Qatar, the college is about to embark on an exciting new chapter with the opening of its expansive new campus in Al Wajba in September 2020. With its existing sites in Al Waab and West Bay uniting under one roof in its state-of-the-art new home, Doha College is paving the way for the next 40 years of innovative education.

Retaining teaching excellence during a pandemic As the world’s first High-Performance-Learning School, Doha College strives to exceed expectations at all times. The underlying growth mindset stands firm, even during the current remote learning phase in which it finds itself. A powerful and resonating vision and ethos ripples through its community that has everyone Teaching phonics online to Primary-aged Doha College students

4 ONLINE EDUCATION DURING THE PANDEMIC Secondary science teacher leading a Year 7 remote teaching class on acids and alkalis

Principal, Dr Steffen “Our subject specialists and welfare teams collaborated Sommer, said: “With at all levels to support each other and the students the HPL philosophy, a during remote learning, a veritable credit to the strong future-oriented growth- relationships which have been fostered at Doha College mindset approach to for forty years. Although everyone misses the face-to- learning, tightly woven face interactions, we have been able to use technology to into the college’s DNA, teach lessons, arrange meetings, hold support sessions, we were well prepared, and enjoy some fun activities and initiatives. Next half both structurally and term, we are planning a virtual graduation for our Year 13 mentally, for coping students to mark this important milestone in their lives. Establishing effective ways of collaboration allowed with the unknown. As The whole community is learning and growing together, everyone to develop a good understanding of each a school where every and this is wonderful to see.” other’s roles at these restricted times and, just as student has been equipped with a one-to- importantly, it unleashed a level of flexibility which paved Key to success in remote learning the way for teachers and students to quickly adapt to one device for their daily learning in school and n Consistent, clear communications with all members of new approaches in teaching and learning. Once everyone Dr. Steffen Sommer, Principal had found their feet within the new on-line classroom at home, technology the DC community processes for recording attendance and ensuring the has been used in an n Regular surveys with parents, students and teachers highest levels of safeguarding, the students’ progress interdisciplinary manner at Doha College for years. Digital to identify areas that are working well, and to adapt curve continued along the same gradient as would have platforms have been integral to the students’ learning, those that need improvement at various stages, thus been expected in a live classroom situation. and digital teaching tools like class dojo and Firefly, our well-established virtual learning environment and all- allowing for the remote learning programme to be Like in any new situation which requires a process of embracing communication platform, had been tried and constantly up-dated and improved in order to ensure adaptation, the ground was fertile for innovative ideas tested well before the pandemic struck. The skills and the highest levels of effectiveness in a very short and new ways of thinking in order to further refine and aptitudes generated by the High-Performance-Learning timescale perfect the remote learning system which was designed, philosophy have been invaluable in this unprecedented right from the outset, to be malleable so that changes n A dedicated crisis team that allows for advanced time of unexpected change. “ could be made at any time, and at short notice, so that planning and reduced impact on the school every individual student’s needs is met. Regular surveys A visionary leadership team and dedicated heads of n A pre-existing integrated digital learning scheme, of students, staff and parents provided the essential both, the Primary and Secondary schools, allowed for including one-to-one devices for students which data for said improvements and, what is more, they remote learning to shine in terms of its delivery of quality support the timely set-up and deployment of remote encouraged the entire stakeholder community to take education within the current restrictions. learning responsibility and actively contribute. Head of Primary, Grant Gilles shared an insight into Well-versed in, and with a modern technical set-up how this was achieved: “There are unique challenges in n Wellbeing of all students during these anxious for the delivery of a British-style education right from working with our youngest students, especially when and testing times being the focal point of many Early Years to the Upper 6th Form, Doha College, under all teaching is delivered on-line. Our partnership with activities to ensure that learners remain engaged and the strategic direction of Principal Dr Steffen Sommer, parents has been instrumental in the success that has connected to their peers and teachers. was able to adapt quickly and thus launched its remote been achieved, as flexibility has been key to developing teaching-and-learning strategy within 48 hours of the an understanding of the new modus operandi for Having mastered its remote learning programme, ministry’s directive to close schools due to COVID-19. which clear expectations had to be set for all within the Doha College has already turned its attention to the framework of our remote teaching-and-learning strategy. next academic year at its new campus in Al Wajba, and Dr Sommer puts this down to the College’s resilience, Our staff have worked tirelessly to create engaging what the education for its 2,500 students may look like. and the entire community’s positive can-do attitude. As lessons with opportunities to personalise support for It is keeping a careful eye on those countries across the first accredited High Performance Learning School in individuals. Our regular whole-class meet-ups on-line the world whose students have physically returned the world, Doha College has truly internalised, and fully have also been a great success in maintaining a critical to school, analysing the latest best practice and how embedded in all its systems the HPL philosophy which sense of connection and community. We have also social distancing rules can be applied in a school has, at its nexus, the firm belief that all students can and tried to maintain as many aspects of the curriculum as environment. Doha College is progressing well with the will be high achievers as long as the inherent essential possible, as well as day-to-day celebrations of success. plans of what can be achieved within those parameters, ingredients are made available to each student at the This has involved house events, headteacher award and they are confident that whatever the guidance for right time and in the right quantity (e.g. a varied and ceremonies and weekly assemblies; even trips to the social distancing may be, they will be able to fulfil the balanced curriculum; highly qualified, well-motivated virtual library.” requirements. and inspiring teachers who personalise their students’ learning; a wealth of opportunities in class, and out of For Secondary, the prospect of no examinations and Whatever the measures are, one thing can be sure school; supportive parents who understand and back the anxiety of students about their futures were key area when it comes to this top British international school: the HPL philosophy, a school culture which is engaging, of focused support. they will always continue an education in the typical innovative, student-centred and focused on well-being, Ruth Sanderson, Head of Secondary, highlights Doha College fashion, Excellence for All, Excellence from etc.). how the College excelled at these challenging times: All being their motto.

ONLINE EDUCATION 5 DURING THE PANDEMIC E- learning The best bet during lockdown

By Dr Anjana Kannankara Budget friendly Can be personalised according to individual needs There are numerous courses and resources available When it comes to e-learning, the students can customize he Corona pandemic has made a global impact for free access which can get rid of any financial issues - the learning environment, the learning content itself, the in the past weeks and continues to hit most of for fee payment during lockdown. Also the fees can be interaction between facilitator student and the learning the sectors, with education being one of the most T kept low while going online, as the student will not be content as per personal preferences. This aspect can affected ones. Students across the world are losing expected to pay his share for the cost of maintaining the generate more interest in students towards learning. valuable time in their education during the imposed whole institution. lockdown amidst fears of pandemic. The situation has No commuting required forced the schools to shut down and the students to stay Convenient to fit into the day Since the students do not require to travel to a particular at home. Students can fit online classes around their existing class for learning they can save the travelling time and No wonder, the children as well as parents feel responsibilities and commitments and can learn at his use it for relaxing after the lessons. All the more, while emotionally and psychologically drained at this juncture. or her own pace and time thereby planning study time learning, they won’t feel tired due to travelling, hence At such a time, the extended lockdown period is forcing accordingly. As long as a student meets the deadlines easier to concentrate. This way more time can be the education sector to rapidly evolve. Most schools and and participate appropriately online, he can be fine. This dedicated for studies. institutions have come up with the idea of online classes means much less pressure and intensity. for students to start their respective academic years, instead of wasting time due to the delay in reopening of Available 24x7 schools. The teachers and the students can interact with each other at any time without the limitations of day or night, Why online learning becomes important for providing study materials, clearing doubts or taking tests; provided the time is convenient to all participants. A major factor that frames student life is a set routine The students and teachers get an opportunity comprising school, homework, coaching or tuition to maintain a warm relationship while classes, co-curricular activities, and more studies with communicating without fear. a dash of entertainment thrown in. But this routine has completely been disrupted - the boundaries between study time, play time and me-time having merged these days, owing to the governmental regulations. Establishing a routine becomes crucial for children, especially while staying indoors the entire day, to which they are not used to. A routine will keep the child engaged and the discipline to follow that routine has to come from parents. The online courses help to do just that. Not only can many of the students now attend the online classes arranged from school, they can remain in a routine, if they choose to attend a few of the online courses from leading ed-tech and e-learning websites. We must recognize that each school community is unique, and it may not be possible for the proposed strategies of social distancing and hygiene practices to be implemented in every setting, during the Corona pandemic scare, if the schools reopen now. The online environment offers unprecedented opportunities for people who would otherwise have limited access to education, as well as a new paradigm for educators in which dynamic courses of the highest quality can be developed.

Advantages of online learning Easily accessible The e- learning method requires only an internet connection with good speed and a computer or mobile. While taking classes online, attending is as simple as opening up your computer or tablet unlike physical classes. The sessions can be even recorded for later use.

6 ONLINE EDUCATION DURING THE PANDEMIC Flexible Online courses give students the opportunity to plan study time around the rest of their day, instead of the other way around- anytime, anywhere. Students can study and work at their convenience. It gives learners plenty of time to digest, engage with each other, practice, or do their own research. Comfortable ambience to focus With online classes, it’s much easier to focus on what is going on. The students can put themselves in the right environment. Headphones can be used if surroundings are noisy. The interactions happen online, meaning they won’t easily wander off topic. And students can choose to study at a time when they are freshest. For those who struggle to concentrate, online classes might be the ideal solution. More Individual attention The teachers can also be at ease as they have enough options to interact with each student online, instruct and address specific issues even directly after the class. They too won’t have the usual pressures of managing school hours, checking the notes, commuting etc hence will be in a better position to take care of student needs online than in physical class rooms. Social distancing can be exercised Amidst the regulations of social distancing and self isolation, the students if allowed to attend schools may not be able to exercise the safety precautions in an effective manner. It would be very tough to control the students from playing or touching each other which might make the situation of virus spread out of control. Online classes can provide the same quality of education in the comfort of their homes thereby helping in securing their future and also in controlling the virus spread.

ONLINE EDUCATION 7 DURING THE PANDEMIC Encourage your child to learn another language

By Sara Burkhard Find entertainment in that language know about your situation and invite them over to chat Think about how your family likes to be entertained in the language your child is studying. Try to host a n a globalized world, being able to speak a second together. Is there a TV series you all like to watch? How dinner or activity you try together where everyone only or third language is something that offers people about movies? There are loads of great films and TV speaks it. value for the rest of their lives. While there is a lot I shows out there that offer subtitles or even audio in of evidence that says the younger a child learns, the different languages. Turn those on next time you’re better, children acquire pronunciation, accent, and going to have a family movie night and see if you can grammar rules best before the end of their teenage pick out any of your favorite phrases together. years. Have them join a language course So, how can you help your child become Language courses are a great way to learn quickly. fluent? And while your child’s school may not offer one, there should be plenty of community organizations that offer Speak with them your child the chance to expand on their language If you already speak the language they’re studying, skills. Another great alternative is to find a prep course it will be easier for your child to feel comfortable trying abroad where your child can be fully immersed in the to speak it. Just as they learned their native language language and build a stronger foundation with it. from you, they’ll benefit from trying to practice language skills together. You can help them establish a Find study groups good foundation with the comfort of home, away from Along with a language course, your child exam scores or the classroom. could benefit greatly from joining a group. A lot of Use apps and online tools communities have after-school programs, classes at Another great way to supplement your child’s Study with them a local recreation center, or other community groups learning is to use apps and online tools. One of the One of the best ways to encourage your child to where your child can find friends and peers who are most famous apps at the moment is Duolingo. It’s practice something that might be tedious or even also trying to improve their skills. a great way to practice short phrases, learn new difficult at times is to join them. Study with your child vocabulary, and even try pronunciation. Some other and show them that you can overcome any challenges Look within your community popular tools include Memrise, which helps gamify the together. It will show them they’re not alone, help Speaking of building upon your community, do you experience, Busuu, which helps with pronunciation strengthen their skills, and it’s a great way to feel have a friend, family member, or neighbor who speaks and accent, and Drops, which offers five-minute quick connected to each other. the language your child is trying to learn? Let them studies you can take anywhere.

8 ONLINE EDUCATION DURING THE PANDEMIC

Leading the way for middle years students in Doha

he Hamilton International School is one of Doha’s newest and most exciting premier schools, Tsituated on a magnificent campus in Mesaimeer, with world-class facilities, an extensive after school program, and a bespoke international curriculum. At the core of Hamilton’s innovative curriculum are three respected international curricula that work together to excite children and prepare them for later examinations. The International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC), the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), and the International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC) together provide a range of age-appropriate and exciting learning opportunities. The Middle School will open the next academic year (2020/21) with Grades 6, 7 and 8 (Years 7, 8 and 9). Hamilton’s International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC) is different because it has been specifically designed to support the development of 11-14-year olds - both academically and personally. Building on the foundations of the International Primary Curriculum for younger students, the IMYC considers the changing brains and emotional needs of adolescents, offering rigorous and engaging learning opportunities that are connected, collaborative and help students to take creative risks with their learning in a safe and supportive environment. As such, the IMYC is now the chosen curriculum of 140 schools across 50 countries worldwide.

“I began noting how teachers and curricula could better support their learning, and I became a passionate advocate about what schools can do to help these students not just survive, but thrive in these important but often challenging years.” – Emily Porter, the Group Director of Learning & Education at the International Schools Partnership.

10 ONLINE EDUCATION DURING THE PANDEMIC Emily Porter, the Group Director of Learning & Education at the International Schools Partnership (ISP), has 20 years of experience in education including the design and writing of the IMYC. In the early part of her career, Emily spent a decade working closely with middle years students and developing a deep understanding of the unique needs of middle school-aged children. Much of this time was spent with different students from a wide range of backgrounds and countries. She commented: “I have been working with 11-14 years olds for 20 years now, and in this time, I have really come to understand this age group in specific ways. I began noting how teachers and curricula could better support their learning, and I became a passionate advocate about what schools can do to help these students not just survive but thrive in these important but often challenging years. I’m very excited to be supporting the implementation of the IMYC at Hamilton, to ensure our middle years students are supported and encouraged to learn to the best of their potential, and that they truly do experience Amazing Learning.”

Scholarships are now open for Middle Years students applying to join Grades 6, 7 or 8 for September 2020/21. Applications close Tuesday, 23rd June 2020! Apply Now! Visit: hamiltoninternationalschool.qa for more information!

To Visit Website

The IMYC will develop skills like: - Self-motivation - Self-regulation - International mindedness - Looking at subjects from multiple perspectives - Empathy and compassion - Being able to take positive actions for change

The IMYC supports student agency – that is, their voice, choice and ownership – helping them to develop self-motivation and self-regulation with their learning for middle school and beyond. In addition to this, the curriculum has been intentionally designed and adapted by Hamilton to develop students’ personal attributes and international mindedness. International Learning Opportunities for Our Students Both The Hamilton International School and Park House English School are part of the International Schools Partnership, a global network of schools, and students from both schools, have access to international learning opportunities. The ISP Buddy Exchange Programme is one such opportunity. It enables reciprocal exchanges between students from ISP schools for a period of one month, providing students a unique international and cultural learning experience while cultivating long-term friendships across the world. Although this learning opportunity has been postponed because of the current travel restrictions around the globe, ISP has launched the Virtual Buddy Exchange Programme for its students. This is an eight week programme running from May to June 2020, and brings ISP students and schools across the world together for a unique international and cultural learning experience. The programme is aimed at those students who were signed up to the 2019/2020 ISP Buddy Exchange Programme, so that they don’t miss out on their unique international learning experience. For more information on this programme and The Hamilton International School please visit https://hamiltoninternationalschool.qa.

ONLINE EDUCATION 11 DURING THE PANDEMIC Must-have features of an Online Education platform By Vishal Dani

n online education platform is meant for delivery of educational content to students. The platform, unlike a textbook is an interactive medium where Astudents can engage with the content. And therefore, these platforms are in high demand in schools and universities across the globe. Because every institute wants their students to understand the concepts and its implications in the real world. This high demand has resulted in the production and availability of many such online education platforms in the market, putting educational institutions in a dilemma. How do they decide which platform works best for their students? Every vendor claims to have the best learning platform which benefits students and teachers. They all have multiple features are more or less similar to one another.

What then, is the differentiating factor which you should look for while selecting an online learning platform? Here, we will highlight some of the features that must be present in a learning platform. Having a concise list will help you determine and compare among multiple tools and make the right choice for your students.

So, here are the must-have features of an online education platform.

Feature 1 Easy-to-use interface Custom branding Feature 2 Feature 3 Offline reading

First of all, we need an interface that is easy An institution would want a platform which Though it’s an online education platform, it to use. The icons and text should be clear and offers a touch of personalization. Just like all the must also be accessible offline. Students might legible. Teachers and students must be able learning resources provided by an institute has want to download some content and read later. to navigate through the app smoothly. A lot their logo over it, similarly, the learning platform And in case there’s no Internet connectivity, of teachers are still getting used to the idea must also incorporate their brand image/logo students should not be deprived of the chance of using eBooks and online content delivery and color palette. to study. So, there must be an option for users to platforms in classrooms. It will give the students a sense of belonging, download content and read it offline. As instructors are required to design rather than using a third-party tool. Therefore, courseware, they must be comfortable in using you must look for a vendor who can provide a the platform efficiently. The tool should be white-label platform, which you can customize designed in such a way that someone who as per your liking. does not know coding must be able to use and operate it without difficulty. As for students, they will appreciate a platform which allows them to navigate easily and functions smoothly.

12 ONLINE EDUCATION DURING THE PANDEMIC Cloud-hosted platform Feature 4 Feature 5 Interactive elements Assessment tools Feature 6

Ensure that it is a cloud-based platform. You should be able to add interactive elements Quizzes and assessments are an important part Meaning, all the data is saved on the cloud. With to the platform. Online interactivities include of education. Ensure that the tool lets you create a cloud-based tool, you can be assured that quizzes, audio files, videos, simulations, different types of quizzes to keep the students your content is always accessible from anywhere gamification etc. The tool must also allow engaged and interested in the course. You can and anytime. Moreover, it can be updated as students to make notes and share with their have various styles of quizzes, such as drag and and when required, and the changes would be peers or teachers, bookmark pages, search drop, match the pairs, answer in brief, labeling, reflected in all students’ eBooks. for information, highlight texts, etc. Including multiple choice questions, fill in the blanks etc. interactive elements increases student The platform must enable teachers to add engagement with the courseware. Hence, look quizzes anywhere in the course module- for all the interactivities that the platform offers. at the end of each chapter or in between chapters. Teachers must be able to review the assessments and provide feedback online.

Licenses, access and Feature 7 Analytics validity Feature 8 Feature 9 Device agnostic

An analytic tool helps measure the effectiveness Find out whether the tool allows teachers The online education platform must be device of the learning program as well as the teaching to give individual license to each student or agnostic. Since it is an application, it must be effectiveness. It will provide detailed insights create a group license. Based on the license readable on most of the devices and operating into the learning pattern of each student. type, access codes are generated, with which systems. Students might have different devices Teachers need this report to get actionable students can access the eBooks. Also enquire with different operating systems- Windows, iOS information. about the validity of the licenses. or Android. They can get insights into content consumed Some platforms allow teachers to set the validity The learning platform that you select must by each student, percentage of the course of the course for every student, post which be able to deliver content on all devices and completed etc. This information helps them the students won’t be able to view the course. operating systems. This will save the students improve their teaching approach, redesign Licenses and access codes gives the educators and their parents from the trouble to buy a the course content or pay more attention to a control over who can view the content. new device that’s compatible with the learning student who needs help. platform.

Content security/ DRM protection Feature 10

The platform should give you complete control over the content. In order to protect your content from unauthorized use and download, you can encrypt the eBook with DRM protection. This will ensure that only those users with the access codes can view the courses.

ONLINE EDUCATION 13 DURING THE PANDEMIC Parenting during lockdown Tips to keep the calm at home

n Direct your attention ear, uncertainty, By Valle Dwight and being holed and reassuring voice, tell them where up at home to slow the spread you are going, how long you will be Attention- to reinforce good behaviors gone, when you will return, and that you and discourage others - is a powerful Fof COVID-19 Notcan make just itchild’s tough play for families to keep a sense of calm. are taking steps to stay safe. tool. Notice good behavior and point it out, praising success and good But Want it’s importantto help kids to do help better children in school? feel n Look forward safe, keep Don’t healthy forget routines,to show themmanage outside to tries. Explaining clear expectations, Tell them that scientists are working their play. behavior Whether and it’s build building resilience. a castle out of particularly with older children, can help hard to figure out how to help people blocks, pretending to be a pirate, or riding with this. Here are some tips from the American who get ill, and that things will get bikes, play isn’t just good for the body — it n Academy (AAP) to help your family better. Use rewards & privileges to reinforce through the outbreak.actually helps the brain. good behaviors (completing school n Offer extra hugs and say “I love you” assignments, chores, getting along with more often. siblings, etc.) that wouldn’t normally be given during less stressful times. Keep healthy routines n Know when not to respond During the pandemic, it is more important than ever to maintain bedtime As long as your child isn’t doing and other routines. They create a sense of something dangerous and gets order to the day that offers reassurance attention for good behavior, ignoring in a very uncertain time. All children, bad behavior can be an effective way of including teens, benefit from routines that stopping it. are predictable yet flexible enough to n Use time-outs meet individual needs. This discipline tool works best by n Structure the day warning children they will get a time- Address children’s fears Valuable play isn’t limited to With the usual routines thrown off, out if they don’t stop. Remind them Children structured rely on their exercise, parents and for it’s most establish new daily schedules. Break what they did wrong in as few words safety, definitely both physical not playing and emotional.video games. At its up schoolwork when possible. Older and with as little emotion as possible. Reassure best, your play childrenengages that the youbody are and there mind children and teens can help with Then, remove them from the situation for them in imaginative and that your activities family that will developget a schedules, but they should follow a for a pre-set length of time (1 minute per through child’s this together.ability to think creatively, work general order, such as: year of age is a good guide). as a team member, and create and n Answer questions about the pandemic n follow rules. So if you’re worried your Wake-up routines, getting dressed, simply & honestly child needs to spend more time doing breakfast and some active play in the fractions/practicingTalk with children about violin anyor diagramming frightening morning, followed by quiet play and newssentences they hear.to become It is OK a tocomplete say people human snack to transition into schoolwork. are being, getting remember sick, but thatsay following kids also rulesneed n Lunch, chores, exercise, some online like unstructured hand washing time and to staying build, create, social time with friends, and then home will help your familyand fantasize.stay homework in the afternoon. healthy. As any kid with a pile of mud n Family time & reading before bed. n Recognize (birthday your cake, child’s anyone?) feelings already Calmly knows, say, play for performs example, an “I essential can see role in Use positive discipline that childhood you are development. upset because But you since can’t we’re Everyone is more anxious and worried have all youradults friends here — over.” and it’sGuiding easy to forget during the pandemic. Younger children questionswhat children can helpinstinctively older children understand — may not have the words to describe Avoid physical punishment andwe’ve teens culled work through through the issues. research (“I knowto find their feelings. They’re more likely to act Spanking, hitting, and other forms it the is disappointing most interesting not studies to be able on differentto hang out their stress, anxiety or fear through of physical or “corporal” punishment with kindsyour friendsof play rightand hownow. they How help do you kids their behavior (which can, in turn, upset risks injury and isn’t effective. Physical think you can stay in touch with them?”)grow. parents, particularly if they are already punishment can increase aggression in n Keep in touch with loved ones stressed). Older children and teens may children over time, fails to teach them Children may alsoFantastic worry about findings a be extra irritable as they miss out on time to behave or practice self-control, and grandparent Whether who it’s is shootingliving alone pretend or a with friends and special events being can even interfere with normal brain relative enemies or friend or playing with an with increased a dollhouse, risk cancelled. development. Corporal punishment may of getting there’s COVID-19. a whole Video lot going chats on can when Some ways you can help your children take away a child’s sense of safety and help young ease kids their use anxiety. their imagination in play. manage their emotions and behaviour: security at home, which are especially needed now. Pretend play uses many parts of the brain, n n Model how to manage feelings Redirect bad behavior including those that control language, n Take care of yourself Sometimes children misbehave because Talk movement, through how emotions, you are and managing cognition. It they are bored or don’t know any better. Caregivers also should be sure to take your also own helps feelings. kids (“Iexplore am worried new roles about and Grandma since I can’t go visit her. Find something else for them to do. care of themselves physically: eat figure out how things work and how they healthy, exercise and get enough sleep. The fit best into I canthe doworld. is to Researchcheck in withhas shown n Creative play her more often by phone. I will put a Find ways to decompress and take that kids who spend lots of time engaged Suggest your children draw pictures reminder on my phone to call her in the breaks. If more than one parent is home, in pretend play are better abstract of ways your family is staying safe. morning and the afternoon until this take turns watching the children if thinkers and more socially and Make a collage and hang it up to outbreak ends.”) possible. linguistically competent. And remind everyone. Or, build an indoor n Tell you your thought child before your child you was fort or castle to keep the germs at bay, leave thejust house playing for withwork dolls! or bringing in favorite stuffed animals or essential errands. In a calm toys.

14 ONLINE EDUCATION DURING THE PANDEMIC

How do you measure success in school? By Philip Bradley

eing reflective is a critical personal and organisational skill. At the Swiss School, it is Bimportant we reflect on our successes and also establish aspirational goals that will make us the best we can be for students and learning as we move forward.

This year has seen many important milestones and metrics that are easy to quantify. We opened the year by celebrating our triple IB authorisations (PYP, MYP, DP), welcoming 30 new teachers and 300 new students. Currently, there are over 700 students, representing 70 different nationalities, speaking 35 languages; this measure of internationalism is certainly a cause for celebration even though it brings complexity!

16 ONLINE EDUCATION DURING THE PANDEMIC Our new IB Diploma students have also brought a clear future focus to the campus with global college and university applications approaching. SISQ continues to expand structurally and in August we opened 20 new learning spaces.

As tempting as it is to focus on some of these data points we have also spent time on some very important philosophical thinking, thinking that defines the SISQ culture. For example, we considered the following quote from Edmund Burke. “Success is the only infallible measure of worth to vulgar minds.” SISQ or any organisation depends upon the degree to and kindness. Developing these “soft skills” is known to which we all live and breath our purpose or vision. At increase success in school and life beyond. SISQ our vision is to develop learners who are Fulfilled, Inspired and Prepared; achieving that vision requires us Admissions for September 2020 are now open. to commit to what we will not do, as much as to what we Online interviews and assessments are being will do. We need to be open-minded and reflective; we conducted at the moment – only limited places need to understand that even as adults there is a need to available! learn, unlearn and relearn. We must not miss the point. Of course at times we measure success against academic expectations but it is vital we recognise skills and dispositions such as grit, honesty, empathy, focus About the Author Philip is the Head of School at the Swiss International School in Qatar (SISQ). He has been involved in International Education for over 30 years. Prior to joining SISQ, he served as the High School Principal at the International School Burke, the Anglo-Irish statesman, was obviously Bangkok. He has previously held administrative provoked into making his comment two hundred and and teaching positions in Peru, Saudi Arabia, fifty years ago by a world that was sadly misaligning Tanzania, France and Wales. its values or simply missing the point. His quote is a powerful reminder to schools to make sure that our definition of success is authentic and driven by our core beliefs and not just easy to measure numbers. Indeed I started this article with some easy to measure numbers of which we are proud, but ultimately the success of

His teaching background is in geography, earth science and physical education. As an administrator Philip has spent a lot of time establishing strong learning focused teams with a focus on IB, curriculum development, assessment, grading and social emotional learning projects.

ONLINE EDUCATION 17 DURING THE PANDEMIC Unicef’s Healthy eating tips during lockdown

he coronavirus disease outbreak is upending life for families around the world. As schools and childcare centres close, Tmany parents are finding themselves stuck at home for most of the day juggling childcare, full-time work and other competing responsibilities. Figuring out “What’s for dinner?” can be yet another daily challenge. To make things even harder, panic buying and disruptions to food supply systems mean some foods can now be difficult to find. And for many people, unemployment and lost income are making food shopping an additional financial challenge. While many parents are understandably looking to ready meals and processed foods as a quick and low-cost way to feed the family, there are convenient, affordable and healthy alternatives. Here are five ways to help feed your children a varied, nutritious diet that will support their growth and development, all while building healthy eating habits.

General food hygiene tips n Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before preparing any food. n User separate chopping boards to prepare uncooked meat and fish. n Cook food to the recommended temperature. n Where possible, keep perishable items refrigerated or frozen, and pay attention to product expiry dates. n Aim to recycle or dispose of food waste and packaging in an appropriate and sanitary manner, avoiding build-up of refuse which could attract pests. n Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before eating and make sure your children do the same. n Always use clean utensils and plates.

18 ONLINE EDUCATION DURING THE PANDEMIC Swap in healthy dried or canned Canned beans and chickpeas, which provide alternatives when fresh produce an abundance of nutrients, can be stored for months or even years, and can be included is not available in meals in many ways. Canned oily fish such Fresh produce is almost always the best as sardines, mackerel and salmon are rich in option, but when it is not available there are protein, omega 3 fatty acids and a range of plenty of healthy alternatives that are easy to vitamins and minerals. These can be used store and prepare. cold in sandwiches, salads or pasta dishes, or cooked as part of a warm meal. Canned vegetables, such as tomatoes, do tend to contain lower quantities of vitamins than fresh produce, but they are a great fallback option when fresh produce or frozen vegetables are hard to come by. Dried goods like dried Keep up fruit & beans, pulses and grains such as lentils, split peas, vegetable intake rice, couscous or quinoa Purchasing, storing and are also nutritious, long- cooking fresh vegetables can lasting options that are be challenging in a lockdown, tasty, affordable and filling. especially when parents are Rolled oats cooked with milk advised to limit trips outside of or water can serve as an the home. But wherever possible, excellent breakfast option, it’s important to ensure children and can be spiced up with are still getting plenty of fruit yoghurt, chopped fruits or and vegetables in their diet. raisins. Whenever it is possible to get hold of fresh produce, do so. As well as being eaten fresh, fruits and vegetables can be frozen where possible and will retain most of their nutrients and flavor. Using fresh vegetables to cook large batches of soups, stews or other dishes will make them last longer and provide meal options for a few days. These can also be frozen where possible and then quickly reheated.

Limit highly processed foods While using fresh produce may not always be possible, try to limit the amount of highly processed foods in your shopping basket. Ready-to-eat meals, packaged snacks and desserts are often high in saturated fat, sugars and salt. If you do purchase processed foods, look at the label and try to choose healthier options containing less of these substances. Try to also avoid sugary drinks and instead drink lots of water. Adding fruits or vegetables like Build up a stock of healthy snacks lemon, lime, cucumber slices or berries to water is a great way to Children often need to eat a snack or two during the day to add an extra twist of flavor. keep them going. Rather than giving kids sweets or salty snacks, opt for healthier options like nuts, cheese, yoghurt (preferably Make cooking and eating a fun and meaningful unsweetened), chopped or dried fruits, boiled eggs, or other locally part of your family routine available healthy options. These foods are nutritious, more filling, and help build healthy eating habits that last a lifetime. Cooking and eating together is a great way to create healthy routines, strengthen family bonds and have fun. Wherever you can, involve your children in food preparation – small children can help with washing or sorting food items while older children can take on more complex tasks and help to set the table. Try as much as possible to stick to fixed mealtimes as a family. Such structures and routine can help reduce anxiety for children in these stressful situations.

ONLINE EDUCATION 19 DURING THE PANDEMIC Stay physically active during school closures

here are many ways your child can be active, even while practicing social distancing. According to Trecommendations from the American Heart Association, kids aim for 60 minutes of moderate or vigorous physical activity per day. Here are a few suggestions to get your child moving:

n Exercise as a family: Children will be more motivated to exercise if the entire family participates. Family walks, bike rides, dance parties, living-room yoga sessions, or backyard soccer games are just a few examples of how your household members can exercise together.

n Encourage outdoor activity: Whenever possible, encourage your child to get outside, even for a quick stroll around the block or a game of catch with a sibling. Several 10-minute outdoor exercise sessions can quickly add up to a full workout.

n Watch online exercise videos: Many online services offer exercise videos geared toward children. Additionally, many sports clubs, exercise studios, schools, and other community organizations are providing on-demand virtual fitness content for kids.

n Take a class: If you have the financial resources, consider supporting your local fitness studio or personal trainer by signing up for online fitness classes or training sessions. Some personal trainers will even host a private virtual “gym class” or sport-specific training session for young athletes who want to work out from home.

n Make it a challenge: Work with your child to set an age- appropriate exercise goal, such as five bike rides per week or 50 push-ups in a row, to motivate them to keep moving.

n Assign calorie-burning chores: Chores such as mowing the lawn, working in the garden, washing the car, or cleaning out the garage provide excellent opportunities for kids to build muscles and burn calories. Consider assigning your kids age-appropriate jobs that do double-duty by helping you accomplish household tasks.

20 ONLINE EDUCATION DURING THE PANDEMIC ONLINE EDUCATION 21 DURING THE PANDEMIC 22 ONLINE EDUCATION DURING THE PANDEMIC Benefits of International School at home and abroad

By Sara Burkhard that no culture has more significance than the others as nobody has the “home field” advantage. In an ttending an international school is an enriching environment like this, everyone is equal and students experience for students of all ages. It can be are more likely to get along and build a community Aparticularly valuable for those in high school together. who are determining who they want to be as they enter adulthood, the type of career they’d like to pursue, and Opportunities for growth where they might see themselves living in the future. While studying in their native country, students still Having an international influence during this time have all the comforts of their home readily available. could give students a global perspective as they This means there’s less need to be independent, and explore diverse cultures and open doors to a range for the most part, it remains a very similar experience of new options. However, attending a school with a to attending a standard high school in the area. And global focus might not be the singular factor in helping while that’s a great fit for the majority of students, the students expand their international perspective. opportunity for students to grow and expand their Here’s a comparison of attending international horizons is amplified by living abroad. school locally versus attending an international school Friends and peers While studying abroad, students have the chance while also studying abroad. A wonderful part of attending high school is the to learn about the local culture and find confidence chance to make friends and spend time with your in a different environment than they’re used to. For peers. While studying at an international school, you high school students, this also gives them the chance have a special opportunity to meet students from to learn about the university process and career different cultures, exploring new world views and opportunities in the country they’ve temporarily perspectives. Although, an international school in your emigrated to. This can be particularly valuable for local community will be attended primarily by students those who’d like to further their education in a different from the area, meaning most of the student body will country. be locals. Overall, living abroad helps students expand A major benefit of studying at an international their horizons and understanding of the world works school like EF Academy is that students come from beyond their immediate culture and community. This all over the world to attend. Every student has this gives students a chance to see a new way of life and unique experience together, coming from different embrace new opportunities in a variety of important backgrounds. This helps to level the playing field, areas.

Cultural influences Studying at an international school will always help students to embrace a global focus. International schools promote international topics of education, building a strong foundation of cultural understanding. Studying a curriculum like the IB Diploma or Cambridge International Examinations can give students the chance to learn more about new cultures and the world beyond the classroom. This experience is only amplified by the simultaneous opportunity to study abroad, where students are confronted with a new culture in their daily lives. Students attending an international school in their local community are still primarily influenced by the culture they’ve always been a part of. Even if they spend the whole day practicing foreign languages, discussing world matters, and studying a more globally-inclusive curriculum, students will still leave campus each day and go back to the same surroundings they’ve had their entire lives.

ONLINE EDUCATION 23 DURING THE PANDEMIC

ACS International Schools shares distance learning tips for parents

o support the millions of school subjects do you have today? How will students across the UK now you spend your time? or What can I do Tcontinuing their studies at home, to help? And at the end of the day you ACS International Schools has compiled might ask: How far did you get in your its best practical advice for parents who learning tasks today? What did you are adapting to their new role of both discover? What was hard? and What parent and educator, while juggling could we do to make tomorrow better? working from home. It’s important to remember that not all ACS’s tips aim to help families make students will thrive in a distance learning the best of new and unfamiliar learning environment and they may struggle environments, and equip parents for the with too much independence or lack more practical aspects of learning from of structure. These check-in routines home. help support your child to find structure Robert Harrison, Education Strategy when learning from home and, critically, Director, ACS International Schools, will help them develop self-management comments: “Distance learning presents and executive functioning that are us all with formidable challenges, and essential skills for life. we are all learning how to do things differently. While no one is sure yet how long distance learning will continue, we know that it won’t last forever, and it’s important that we offer the best support we can in this time. Children and young people take cues from adult behaviour and attitudes, so remember to communicate calmly, confidently and optimistically that we will pull through the crisis together. Managing our own Help students ‘own’ their learning: emotions will help your children stay No one expects parents to be full-time focused on learning and looking forward teachers or to be experts in every to another school year.” subject, the best thing to do is to provide support and encouragement, and expect your children to do their ACS’s top distance part. Try not to help too much - becoming independent takes lots of learning tips for practice and this is a good opportunity parents to put those skills to the test!

Encourage physical activity: When living and working at home, we will all need to allocate time to let off steam. Physical activity is vital to health, wellbeing, and readiness for learning. During this time, take the opportunity to practice exercising ‘alone together’ with digital workouts and online instructors. Plan hands-on, life-ready activities that keep hands busy, feet moving, and minds engaged! Make the most of an unusual and stressful situation: We are going Connect safely with friends: It is likely through a time of major upheaval to that young people across the UK our normal routines and ways of life will already be missing their friends, and there’s a great deal of anxiety in classmates and teachers, and where the world right now. Children benefit it is fantastic that you can help your when they get age-appropriate factual child maintain contact with friends information and ongoing reassurance Begin and end the day by checking in: through social media and other online from adults. Establishing a routine is important and technologies, it is also very important In the current circumstances, it is ensuring you make a habit of checking to monitor their social media use and often possible to reframe challenges in with your child at the beginning and ensure they stay safe online. as opportunities - for spending time end of each day will help keep them Remind your child to be polite, together, discovering new ideas and grounded, will allow them to process respectful and appropriate in their interests, and investing energy and instructions they’ve received from their communications, and to report attention in activities that often get teachers, and will help them to organise unkindness and other problems so that pushed aside by everyday tasks and themselves and set priorities. In the everyone maintains healthy relationships responsibilities. Slow down and enjoy morning, you might ask: What classes/ and positive interactions. the unexpected benefits.

ONLINE EDUCATION 25 DURING THE PANDEMIC De-stress and regain your energy By Claudia Pesce Feed your body unning from one class to the next, combined With our hectic schedules and busy life, it’s far too with personal and family responsibilities, not to common for ESL teachers to grab a quick bite instead Rmention things like the economic crisis, fear of of sitting down to lunch, or chow down on whatever we losing your job, poor eating habits, few hours of sleep, can find first once we get home. So, during your detox etc…is one deadly cocktail. You cannot simply force period, eat good, nutritious food. And take your time. yourself to go on. Sooner or later your health – physical, Savor it and enjoy the flavors. Yummy, delicious food mental and emotional – will suffer for it. So, now that does wonders to our mood. we all agree that it is indeed very important to take the time to detox and de-stress, let’s take a look at the steps. Get unplugged Turn off your cell and computer, and leave these and any other technological devices off for the duration of your detox period, ideally. If it’s not possible choose one time during the day for you to check in, like first thing in the morning for a few minutes, and then disconnect yourself. This may be difficult, but it will be well worth it. Remember what it was like when we were little and had nothing better to do than sit on the porch and watch birds fly from tree to tree? Go back to the basics – enjoy time with your family, long walks or a cup of coffee with a friend. Try meditation Get plenty of rest Guzzle up the H2O As an ESL teacher you need to keep your students Allow yourself to sleep in. Indulge in a mid- It’s no big news that most of us don’t drink enough on their toes. You need to provide activities that are afternoon nap. Or just lie on your comfiest sofa and water. But few are aware that dehydration causes challenging, but not too difficult for their level. You look out the window. Let your entire body relax headaches, false hunger pangs and food cravings, need to complete the coursework and help your and enjoy the feeling that there is no rush, no place among other symptoms. To find out how much you students meet language goals, but also keep your you have to run to right now. If you haven’t been should drink in liters, simply multiply your weight in students’ individual needs and learning styles in mind. getting enough hours of sleep, catch up on your zzzs. kilograms by 0.033. So, if you weigh 60 kg, that works This takes a lot of mental work! During your detox When your students see you again, they’ll notice the out to about 2 liters of water a day. period, take the time to quiet your mind. A meditation difference. can be as simple as closing your eyes and freeing your Get exercise mind from all of the clutter, or it can be guided step by Feed your soul Running from class to class does not qualify as step. Read some of your most inspiring authors. Read good “exercise”. It’s stressful. Take the time to really Find a quiet spot, free of any distractions and close magazines as you lounge on your favorite chair. But enjoy some stress-free physical activity. Go jogging, your eyes. Breathe in and out. Let the tempestuous sea don’t read stuff for work. Read things that will take you walking, hiking, canoeing, rollerblading or anything you of ideas, problems and issues fizzle out till it’s nothing back to a more relaxed, carefree place. really enjoy doing outdoors. but a calm ocean of opportunities.

26 ONLINE EDUCATION DURING THE PANDEMIC Fun Artificial Intelligence activities for Children

By Alexiei Dingli the objects which make up the image Quick Draw can be played at https://tinyurl.com/ and giving them a label. However, the AI AIEx-Draw he pandemic is bringing the entire globe to a halt is not perfect and sometimes it makes Shadow Art allows children and since children will have ample time at home some mistakes. The children can be asked to learn how to make with their parents, why not use this time to try to correct the captions of the Sentence T shadow puppets just by some fun activities whilst teaching them some Artificial Generator. Intelligence (AI)? using their hands. The AI will then look at their hands I know that AI can be daunting some times, The Sentence Generator can be found at https://tinyurl.com/AIEx-See through the camera of your however, the examples below were specifically chosen mobile device and decide to be easy to use for parents. So what are you waiting Thing Translator takes a photo of an whether it’s good or not! for? object and gives us a description of it Eliza is one of the first chatbots ever created (1964). using a natural language (such as Spanish, Italian, etc.) Shadow Art can be used at The chatbot works by typing something and it will give of our choice. It can be easily used by children to learn https://tinyurl.com/AIEx-ShadowArt you a reply. The replies are somewhat limited; however, how to pronounce things found around the house Intelligent Piece of Paper shows how a program can it is still fun and safe to chat with it. Because of this, it is using one of the foreign languages they are learning at play the game of Tic-Tac-Toe and win by following highly recommended for children who are still learning school. straightforward rules. how to read and write. The Thing Translator can be found at The Intelligent Piece of Paper can be found at Eliza can be found at https://tinyurl.com/AIEx-Translator https://tinyurl.com/AIEx-TicTacToe https://tinyurl.com/AIEx-Eliza Emoji Scavenger Hunt uses Semi-conductor allows you to manage a real orchestra Mitsuku is one of AI to identify emojis in the just like a real-life conductor. All one has to do is look at the most advanced real world using the mobile the camera of the mobile device and move his hands! chatbots currently device’s camera. It starts in existence. It won by displaying a picture of a The Semi-conductor can be found at various prizes and key, and the child has to go https://tinyurl.com/AIEx-SemiConductor around the house looking can talk about most Freddiemeter is a karaoke AI which allows you to sing for a real key. The AI will then verify, using the camera topics. Since it is an songs by Freddie Mercury and then rates how good of the mobile device, whether he is correct or no. This advanced chatbot, it you are. This game is not just fun for kids who are game can help small children learn about different is recommended for learning how to read but for all the family! older children since it objects found around the house. can deal with mature The Freddiemeter can be found at The Emoji Scavenger Hunt can be played topics ranging from the coronavirus, world history and https://tinyurl.com/AIEx-Freddy much more. Because of this, it is recommended that at https://tinyurl.com/AIEx-Emoji smaller children use it in the company of a guardian. Quick, Draw! is a game whereby the user has to Mitsuku can be found at draw something, and the https://tinyurl.com/AIEx-Mitsuku AI has to guess what it Sentence Generator gets an image as input and creates is. This game is ideal for a caption for that image. It does so by understanding children of any age.

ONLINE EDUCATION 27 DURING THE PANDEMIC Protecting kids from Online Scams urfing the Internet means possible exposure to online scams, something your children might not have any concept of. If you’re allowing them to go online, it’s Simperative that you discuss online scams. Such scams come in a variety of guises, including those that specifically target children.

Let’s look at how to best protect your kiddies from those who would scam them.

Educate yourself first The first step in protecting your children from online scams is to educate yourself on the types of scams currently floating around the Internet. One type of scam is the free trial offer, which claims to provide, for example, free one-month trials of some “amazing” product. The fine print of these scams includes terms stating that after the trial period, you’ll be paying for the product once a month ... forever. Other examples of Internet scams include fake Wi-Fi hotspots; social media and email messages indicating you’ve won an expensive prize or should enter a contest to win an expensive prize; and bogus pop-ups warning of supposed viruses and malware. The latter scam often looks like legitimate antivirus programs, but what you’re doing to “fix” your computer is actually infecting it with a virus. Unfortunately, these are merely some of the many online scams that exist, so be sure to do your homework.

28 ONLINE EDUCATION DURING THE PANDEMIC Errors Many Internet scams are rife with grammatical and spelling errors. If you receive messages laden with such errors about a “great deal” or contest, it’s probably a scam, even if it comes from a “friend.” However, there are plenty of Internet scams that contain flawless wording, as it’s one of the ways scammers make their messages look legitimate.

Communication When it comes to recognizing scams, keep communication open and clear with your children. Stress that they should always come to you about any suspicious messages or pop-ups they receive, and accepts an invitation for a screen test. They may seem Learning the signs regularly discuss online scam signs if Internet usage is real at first, but they always ask for money to continue a big thing in your house. Scammers rely on children’s Once you feel secure in your knowledge of “working” with the agency. Internet scams, it’s time to pass this information innocence, so consider limiting Internet time in your on to your kids. Educating them about indicators of Scholarship scams home until you’re certain the kids are scam-savvy scams is important, with typical signs including: enough. Another scam that targets children is scholarship scams. They claim to be recognizing children for Courtesy: NortonLifeLock academic achievement but, as with talent scams, require paying significant upfront fees.

Foreign offers Messages from “foreign princes” claiming you need to help them transfer thousands of dollars, and simply have to pay the $150 wiring fee to enjoy a cut of the money, are now-classic online scams. Emotional manipulation Manipulating emotions is another common scammer trick. Financial stress, loneliness, and frustration are examples of the emotional states scammers prey on. They might not ask for money, but they will insist on personal information, which they will then use to steal identities. Talent searches “Kids talent searches” are types of scams that target children specifically. These scams might suggest that a child joins a particular modeling agency or

ONLINE EDUCATION 29 DURING THE PANDEMIC Compass International School’s Virtual School Experience Personalised learning for your child, wherever your family is in the world

s part of Nord Anglia Education’s global network of 66 premium schools, Your child will: Compass International School’s education offering is unmatched in Doha. n Participate in lessons in real-time with their world-class teachers wherever possible A Through the Nord Anglia Virtual School Experience, your child always has n Receive and submit assignments access to personalised learning taught by our school’s world-class teachers. n Collaborate with their peers No matter where your family is in the world, we can still welcome your child into n Develop essential skills independently their classroom through our virtual school. n Be recognised for their outstanding work

30 ONLINE EDUCATION DURING THE PANDEMIC Bringing creative and inspiring lessons to your child through our virtual school, our blended learning approach is designed to ensure that your child receives the full curriculum of education, whilst staying healthy and safe at home. Our global team of world-class teachers have all the tools they need to share best practice and ideas for optimising your child’s personalised learning. Whether it is daily movement challenges set by some of our PE teachers or lateral thinking exercises to help keep students engaged, being part of a Nord Anglia school means that your child will benefit from the creativity and commitment of 9,000 talented teachers worldwide. The 66,000 students across all Nord Anglia Education schools are also connected through Global Campus, where they collaborate and create world-class ideas. Students may work remotely together, solving challenges like those set by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology or collaborating on solutions for UNICEF’s Sustainable Development Goals. Whilst our school is closed, our friendly Admissions Team are on hand to offer you the best possible virtual and over the phone experience. Book a personalised one to one Virtual Discovery Meeting to learn more about our school and how your child can benefit from a Nord Anglia education.

Visit our website to book your Virtual Discovery Meeting today: cisdoha.com

ONLINE EDUCATION 31 DURING THE PANDEMIC Time Management tips to stay productive

By Madeline Ames

igh school is a busy time. Between classes and homework, sports and co-curricular Hactivities, free time can be hard to find. While participating in a variety of activities can be fun, feeling overwhelmed by commitments is the opposite. We’re all familiar with late-night study sessions and last-minute essay edits. The panicky feeling that comes with unpreparedness is not a fun experience. Juggling a busy schedule with a variety of commitments can be tough, but shouldn’t end in sleepless nights of cramming for exams. Read on for some time management tips to keep your stress low and your productivity high.

32 ONLINE EDUCATION DURING THE PANDEMIC Make a to-do list Take time for yourself Creating a list of all your tasks is an important Even if it’s just a few minutes a day, be sure that first step in figuring out how to manage a busy you take time each day to check in with yourself. schedule. Whether you use a calendar, journal, Whether it’s taking 15 minutes to go for a walk or the notes app in your phone, writing down outside or taking a break to meditate or practice everything you need to do is a great way to clearly yoga between papers, give yourself time to rest keep track of what you need to focus on each day, and reset. Prioritizing self-care will ensure that week, or month. Each time you finish a task, cross it you stay aware of your well-being even during the off – and watch your list dwindle as you accomplish busiest times. Don’t forget to sleep, too! You will be your goals. Seeing all the things you’ve achieved will most productive when your mental, emotional, and keep you motivated, and you’ll feel a fantastic sense physical health are being paid the attention they of fulfillment when your entire list is complete. deserve. Understanding and practicing time management in high school is one of the most beneficial skills students can learn. By figuring out how 4 to balance academics, sports and activities, social engagements, and self-care, students set themselves up for success in both university and their future careers. Time management is not an easy thing to master, so by building healthy habits in high school, students will be well-equipped to juggle a variety of commitments throughout their lives.

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Set reasonable goals Plan ahead While keeping track of all your tasks can Each week, take some time to review your be helpful for time management, it can also be upcoming deadlines and commitments. Lay overwhelming. In order to stay on top of your tasks everything out in a planner or a calendar on your without feeling stressed about how much you need phone, so you have everything in one place. Plan to do, break each task down into smaller, more your study schedule based on how much time you’ll attainable pieces. For example, instead of trying have during the week. If you know you’re busy to tackle an entire project in one night, separate it volunteering Wednesday afternoon, plan to start into steps. If you make time to brainstorm, research, studying for you history test a little earlier. This way write, revise and edit a paper, it will be easier to you won’t be caught awake in the middle of the tackle each piece of the project instead of trying to night cramming for an exam. do everything at once.

ONLINE EDUCATION 33 DURING THE PANDEMIC Special Education and Teaching Skills eachers are the cornerstone of children’s adapt lessons that work for the strengths of each child. development. A solid teacher offers inspiration In certain circumstances, students may function well Tand encouragement so that students achieve but have social interaction problems. Others may not success inside and outside the classroom. When it be able to perform basic speaking or motor skills. While comes to children with special needs, teachers must designing daily activities and plans for the classroom, a possess characteristics that help them deal with teacher must get creative in order to accommodate all physical and cognitive disorders. Here are five effective of the children’s needs. Since disabilities may manifest traits of every special education teacher. differently each day, planning must remain flexible as well. There must be time to deal with outbursts or other roadblocks. New teaching techniques are developed on a regular basis, so a special education teacher must remain abreast of the most effective methods.

Acceptance A special education teacher works alongside Organization disabled students with various problems. No matter the Organization is key for all teachers, especially issues, this professional must accept all children and those who deal with disabled students. When a child interact with dignity and respect. Even children who is taught in an organized environment, he or she will are unable to communicate properly or function at low have higher confidence levels. There are numerous developmental levels sense negativity, especially when ways a teacher can remain organized. For example, it a teacher is acting in an uncomfortable manner. It is is possible to use color-coded folders and notebooks. key to create a sense of value within the classroom so To cut confusion, it is wise to label various areas of that all children have the maximum chances of gaining the classroom. Every special ed teacher must keep success. Patience records so that he or he can accurately report students’ accomplishments to administrators and parents as well. When a child has special needs, patience is a must. Intuitive and calming nature Since this type of student takes longer to perform Certain children find it difficult to express their simple tasks, understanding is key for development. Creativity feelings, especially when they have communication No matter how long it takes, a special education Since all children have different learning styles, problems. Oftentimes, special needs students withdraw teacher must give a child time to complete the task. a special education teacher must have the ability to or act negatively when they get confused or feel Having a good sense of humor will help along the way. overwhelmed. A special education teacher must use his Although the classroom is a place for serious learning, or her intuitive skills to uncover the underlying reasons dealing with a special needs child will require the behind the poor behavior. ability to create a cheerful environment that Also, it is essential to provide a calm temperament empowers this type of student to gain success. when dealing with these type of students. Many Also, it is up to this teacher to take time and children must balance behavioral and learning issues, comprehend each student’s individual needs so a classroom environment can be extremely stressful. so that frustrating situations can be avoided. An effective teacher will be able to calm his or her students so that anxiety is reduced. When children feel safe, they are more likely to be open to learning. Special education teachers require a number of skills different from traditional educators. They play a vital role in the classroom and must work hard to maintain balance. The above traits are just a few characteristics that create an environment that works well for children with physical and emotional disabilities. When a teacher possess these virtues, special needs students are sure to thrive. Tips for choosing and applying to Universities

it now, it doesn’t mean they will continue to! Make sure you know what you’re getting.

Don’t obsess over finding the ‘best’ Geography after my first year, and had a strong Politics university and Government research strand which matched my When I was applying I spent a disproportionate interests. There’s nothing worse than picking a course amount of time looking at university league tables, and then realising that your favourite subjects from working out which was the best university I could A-Level are nowhere to be seen in it. possibly go to, and it wasn’t helpful. Since being at university I’ve learnt that league tables rely heavily on a measure of research output, so they are not directly evaluating my university experience. If you’re going to By Laura Warner look in detail at a metric, make it student satisfaction scores – you want to go to a university and study a o here is a list of top things to consider and check course where current students are happy. You’ll realise out if you’re applying to university. there’s more to life than statistics and prestige, and S you’ll gain the most from a university where you enjoy Make sure you’re doing what’s best studying and living. for you If you’re applying for university, make sure it’s because you want to go. When deciding on which course to study, make sure it’s because you enjoy it. When working out where you’ll go to university, make sure it’s a place you want to (and can afford to) live in for the duration of your degree. I would absolutely Work out whether you want to go to a recommend taking advice from teachers, parents, research university or a teaching one friends, current students – and sometimes these Research universities’ primary focus is research, provide the best insights into university – but be careful and teaching universities teach: it’s about as simple to ensure that the final decision is your own, and one as that. I chose a research university because of the that you’re happy with. prestige associated with it, but that’s meant that I get less teaching time – approximately between four and six hours per week. You’ll almost certainly spend more time in lectures and seminars at a teaching university, When you get there, always demand and less time allocated to independent study and the benefits of this vary depending on how you work best. more of the university If you’re not easily motivated and don’t enjoy working Universities get away with not providing the by yourself, opt for a teaching university! Even if you services they advertise all too easily and it is not good do, be aware that it’s hard to structure your week enough. From day one if you’re not getting the lectures around only a few hours of teaching – even for the you expected, the essay feedback they promised, a most driven students! quality of teaching deemed reasonable, and access to clubs, societies, careers services, health centres and It doesn’t matter what they offer at the accommodation, ask questions and demand answers. moment, it matters what they offer when I spent my first year at university pretty sad: it wasn’t what I expected and it definitely wasn’t living up to any you’re there of my expectations. I spent my second year angry that Make sure you’re applying for the course, As a Geographer, a degree course with some good I wasn’t receiving the service that was advertised to me field-trips was important to me. At the open day I when I accepted my place, and indeed the one I was not the university heard of trips to America and Australia, which really paying £9,000 a year for. I’m spending my third year Too many students pick their university choices excited me, but none of which were offered when I insisting that changes are made, and being proactive based on the university itself and not the course they’re arrived at university. Always ask the question what in helping these occur. This is simultaneously one of going to be studying, and this will rarely end well. I projects, modules, trips you will receive and they will the most important and frustrating things I’ve done at knew that UCL would allow me to specialise in Human be running when you are there: just because they offer university.

ONLINE EDUCATION 35 DURING THE PANDEMIC The American

School of Doha Leading Beyond the Classroom

he American School of Doha (ASD) is a Pre-K through Grade 12 school that is an educational leader in Qatar and throughout the MENA region. ASD is defined Tby its proactive teaching and learning environment that consistently engages forward-thinking and is committed to the intellectual and personal development of its students, inspiring and empowering them to become positive, active, global citizens. A Global citizen leads beyond the classroom and stays resilient in uncertain times. “The extent of the current state of the world was not anticipated or predicted, however, ASD was prudent and active in planning for the potential scenarios,” said Dr. Heather Vlach, Director of Teaching and Learning.

ASD takes the duty it has to provide its students with a high-quality education very seriously, even if that means instruction taking place outside of the classroom. Teneen was introduced as a Learning Management Tool to the ASD community in 2017/2018 and was fully implemented into the curriculum during the 2018/2019 school year. Teneen is part of ASD’s commitment to deliver on its vision to extend beyond walls, fostering innovation and encouraging a technology enhanced environment. ASD recognises that having an online platform is critical, not only to enrich learning, but it serves a larger purpose in cases such as school closure. Teneen Virtual School (TVS) is used to deliver high-quality learning to students online, fulfilling ASD’s value of responsibility. The ASD Leadership Team began scenario planning for the COVID-19 pandemic in mid-January 2020, with the priority of ensuring that the community was prepared should a school closure occur. At the start of February 2020, ASD began preparing the community for the possibility of going virtual. All students, across all Grades, were expected to log in and submit assignments in ASD’s TVS platform. The goal was to test TVS to ensure all students and parents were able to access the platform. ASD took scenario planning and preparation. These meetings have been conducted in addition to particular care to ensure that Elementary School parents were equipped to help their the weekly memos that have gone out to the community. All divisions at ASD have held children navigate the TVS platform since these students require their parents to help virtual meetings over Zoom with parents and conducted parent and student feedback them access online school. Faculty and Staff were diligent in their preparedness for the surveys, seeking assessments of TVS in order to garner ideas for improvement. transition into online schooling, attending training sessions and updating lesson plans Teachers then take that feedback to improve online instruction. accordingly. Thanks to these initiatives, when TVS did kick off on March 11, the transition Nick Mitchell, Middle School Associate Principal accredits TVS’s success to its to the online classroom was relatively seamless. teachers saying “the single most important reason for our successful transition was “We felt the school took immediate action preparing a month ahead of the school our outstanding teachers. They went above and beyond to transform their teaching closing. Children were coming home with reports of briefings and meetings about from the classroom to the home to ensure that all our students continue to learn in the potential for an eventual lockdown and virtual school. When it happened teachers collaborative, creative, and authentic ways”. were always available to answer questions and doubts, so we felt confident about the There’s no question that virtual learning is more challenging than normal school, transition,” said ASD parent Elisabete. but our teachers have done an amazing job adapting. Teachers have created an ASD takes the commitment it has to effectively communicate with parents and environment where students do not feel like they are at home at a desk alone. the community seriously during these uncertain times. ASD Director Dr. Tom Hawkins “I was expecting TVS to just be an email from my teacher every day outlining has held multiple Virtual Coffee and Conversation meetings with over 150 parents via what to do. But TVS allows teachers and students to connect very similar to being in a Zoom in order to gauge feedback and provide updates from the Leadership Team on classroom” said Joseph, a Junior at ASD.

36 ONLINE EDUCATION DURING THE PANDEMIC Teachers are also trying to make TVS fun! In elementary, birthdays are still being even though we are celebrated with classes, online games are happening in the Middle School, and some not physically together classes have been practicing salsa during class in High School! their teacher is still Although the transition to TVS has been seamless thanks to the actions taken to thinking about them prepare the community for school closure and the thorough communication ASD has every day. We are provided to the community, having school online is not ideal for any educational entity. challenging them to ASD understands that although students will continue to learn, they will miss the social do their best, cheering and emotional connections made while physically going to school. With this in mind, them on, watching their ASD teachers have taken every effort to ensure students continue their social and growth and marveling emotional connections with classmates and teachers. at how capable they are.” Grade 1 teacher Sweta Agrawal says “I try to keep my TVS videos fun by learning to use new technology using things kids enjoy like green screen, TikTok, and time- ASD Faculty, Staff lapses. My own children are often in the videos. In one video my 3-year-old son helped and Parents have put in an amazing effort to ensure TVS is successful, but the success me show my students how to make a smoothie. In another video, my 6-year-old and I of TVS comes down to the resilience of each ASD student. Although ASD on campus jumped in puddles and told my students that their homework was to find the biggest learning is closed, virtual learning continues. ASD is proud to teach dedicated and puddle to jump in. Through our daily connections, I want my students to know that resilient students who are leading the way for learning in Qatar and beyond.

ONLINE EDUCATION 37 DURING THE PANDEMIC Inspirational Tips for Students Motivation

By Emma Rundle you to the question how to get motivated is simply to yourself for it. It doesn’t have to be anything big. A accept this as something beneficial to you. night out with friends, some time in front of the TV ne of the most important features, as well as Even if you don’t like math, the skill you’ll obtain by watching your favorite TV show, or a day spent with challenges of a student is motivation. All people studying will serve you a lot in life. Those who don’t like family – every idea you like is good enough. need motivation to keep up with their daily O writing, see their written homework as a torture, but tasks and obligations, but, for a student, the need to be writing is a crucial skill to succeed in today’s world. constantly motivated is enhanced. The sooner you change your perspective, the more In order to build a good career for yourself, you willing you’ll be to do your assignments. need to be consistent with your academic efforts. To do so, you need to be motivated not only to choose your field of study, but to actually finish your day-to- Focus on your areas of interest day tasks in time. You can’t love every subject you’re studying. It is In spite of knowing this, most students aren’t unnatural and no one does. But, while you have to work thrilled about their academic obligations. There’s on all your skills and study for all subjects, you can probably not a single student in the world who hasn’t focus most of your efforts on the things you love. After felt lack of motivation to get up for class or do his all, pursuing something you love is the best thing you homework. For most students, this is an almost every can do for your future career. day experience. The tiredness and pressure can make Don’t slack off in terms of other subjects, but try you lose your motivation to study. Thankfully, there’s to turn your favorite area of study into your hobby. such a thing as self motivation, which means that Research the field, get involved in it, and simply build you are the one responsible for your productivity and a healthy study habit by using your area of interest. success. If you do this often, you’ll be more productive to Get some support Back when I studied in an Australian university, study. Focusing on the things you love can keep you There are plenty of places where you can get I’ve learned the four essential habits that boost the productive and build a fine study habit for you, which support and motivation. Work with your friends and motivation. Here they are. is something that will keep you in the mood when you peers, ask others for help, and look for motivation have to study for the other subjects. in different places. When you lose focus from your Change the perspective studies, a bit of a competition will keep you running. None of the motivational tricks and tips will ever Reward yourself for a job well done Ask your teachers for help, find and hire a work unless you change your perspective toward Even the smallest accomplishment can give you professional, or simply tell your family that you feel learning or finishing projects. a sense of satisfaction. The goal of every student is to exhausted. Having support is crucial during busy times Seeing how students learn a variety of subjects graduate, but, to get there, you need more than just such as your student years. and work on versatile projects to build several skills one big goal. The constant workload and academic pressure they’ll need in life, it is only natural that you won’t be Give yourself small goals to keep you motivated can cause tiredness and overwhelm in every student. interested in every topic you come across. to work on them. When you To keep yourself motivated to finish your studies and Even so, you’ll still have to study that topic or write are finished with a task perform well, you need these motivation tips and tricks. a paper on it. Therefore, the best answer I can give successfully, reward Try to practice them throughout your education.

38 ONLINE EDUCATION DURING THE PANDEMIC