Constructive aspects of Virtual Learning
- 18 June 2021
With the fall of the first phase of covid, a sight of hope had emerged with the opening of physical schools but as the situation got worsened again, schools were forced to get back to the virtual learning mode. Too much screen time, lack of physical activities, social skill development and lack of personalized attention were some of the perceived concerns associated with Virtual Schooling in the parent’s mind.
Contrary to all this, educators strongly believe that virtual learning has in fact given birth to opportunities beyond physical access. Children are now able to attain exposure to internationally certified courses and polishing their knowledge through various global platforms and challenges under the guidance of profound coaches around the world with just a click away. Over 3.36 Lakh active online sessions were recorded by students from Oakridge Bachupally over the last 8 months alone on their internal online learning portal, showing the sustained interest and engagement with online learning.
“Philosophy for education rests on the 4 pillars of creativity, wellbeing, excellent academic outcomes and global connectedness. These are delivered through innovative use of educational technology to create a personalised, learning experience for all students. Virtual learning gives the students access to all the resources and material at their fingertips.” says Baljeet Oberoi, Principal of Oakridge International School, Bachupally.
Speaking about her Virtual learning experience, Oakridger Rida says “With virtual learning, I was able to better understand concepts due to the increased set of available resources. Co-creation of scientific and extracurricular activities with my peers and teachers across large distances truly created a unique experience. Additionally, I had the opportunity to interact with global leaders and experts through webinars, university fairs and speaker sessions.”
The constantly evolving virtual learning model has ensured some of the concerns are no more present. For instance, at Oakridge Bachupally, a balance online-offline learning approach is followed that allows students to substantiate and better understand the concept they have learnt during their online classes with engaging offline activities. This allows them to stay completely away from the digital screens on certain days to perform these enriching offline activities yet remain focused on learning.
Students attain practical exposure and hands-on learning experience in the virtual scenario through unlimited access to project-based online learning challenges. Further, students present their ideas in form of models or projects to others, thereby developing their social skills and making them confident individuals.
“While nothing beats the interactive learning that a teacher in the classroom can deliver, with the strides education technologies have made in the last couple of years, providing a seamless blend of personal and digital learning has become the new normal. That is the future,” she adds.
