A practical guide to switching to distance learning in 24 hours

At the James Bay School Services Center (CSSBJ), we believe that it is possible to switch to distance education in just 24 hours… if we are properly guided and equipped. To this end, over the past three weeks, seven people have actively participated in the preparation of a reference tool so that the transition can take place as quickly and efficiently as possible, if necessary.

“We are afraid of having to go through a second confinement during the school year. For our team, it had become a priority to prepare for this situation as easily as possible, without interruption, if it ever arises ”, indicates Marc Nolet, educational advisor at the local RÉCIT of the CSSBJ.

As soon as he spoke about the project to the director of educational services, he obtained her agreement to form a team and begin the creative process. Two RÉCIT pedagogical advisers, a math-science pedagogical advisor, a special education pedagogical advisor, two teachers and an assistant were identified. “For me, it was essential that teachers be involved in the project: they reflect what is actually experienced in the classroom,” explains Mr. Nolet.

Without really knowing what the end result would look like, the team started the process with clear directions. It had to be easy to read, simple to understand and to use. In short, you had to be practical.

Finally, the tool takes the form of a sort of "clickable doily", available entirely online. It has two sections: “I prepare myself” and “In action”, also divided into three sub-sections (Educational component, Technological component and Classroom management). All items are presented in a concise and convenient list.

Although each section is important, in a complementary video capsule, the two teachers who took part in the project identified the elements they considered to be the most relevant to them. 

For example, the Reminder for the teacher answers the question "Where to start?" To switch to distance learning. Also, the behavioral matrix presents a model of "rules of life" expected from the pupils, to be communicated to them beforehand. Likewise, the "I live it from home" section is a guide to making virtual meetings with students more interactive and effective. Tool selection devaluation and of rfeedback is also a must.

An enthusiastic welcome from the network

As soon as Marc Nolet shared the new tool on social media earlier this week, he was inundated with positive comments and requests to share, which proved to be indicative of a real need in the industry. “We built the document according to our reality, based on our technological organizational choices. In some service centers, it may be taken as is, but others will have to adapt it to their situation. In any event, we can certainly draw inspiration from our approach. "

For more tips on switching to distance education:

• In person and remotely: Prepare to switch from one to the other without too much trouble
• 3 keys that should be found in any teaching plan during a pandemic

In addition to this article, Carrefour education offers you its distance learning guide.