Thoughts On Remote Learning and This Crazy World We Are In

As we conclude this first week of online learning, I want to give my thoughts about how things are going and the implications of all this. It is never easy to make major life adjustments like this on the fly. Personally, I had to make the move to online learning while also taking two graduate classes online and while having my entire family home. Talk about a challenge! I would love to hear from some of you in the comments about how you are adjusting.

I have been so incredibly impressed with the flexibility all of my students have shown through this transition to online learning. I know that this has to be incredibly hard for your senior year to be ending this way and you have all stepped up to the plate. The quality and depth of your words on the discussions board posts, as well as your effort on your 90-second speeches, have been terrific. I know this online learning thing isn’t easy, but trust me you are gaining valuable skills along the way. Namely, flexibility, time-management, and patience. We have to remember to make sure we are still taking care of ourselves, though.

During this time of social distancing, I have been trying to really make an effort to keep my mind and body in a good place by getting outside at least once per day to go for a run or go on a walk with my kids. If all we do is sit inside and stare at a screen all day, we will start to lose our positive mindset that is so important to get through this difficult time. The CDC gave a whole list of things to think about and activities to engage in to keep ourselves sharp and manage anxiety and mental health. Let’s all help each other get through this time by encouraging and taking care of ourselves mentally and physically.

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