Home learning is fast becoming blended learning at our school and is a term being used to describe a methodology which includes online and face to face teaching. At Ysgol Uwchradd Caergybi this approach combines the traditional class with digital activity through the use of tablets, smartphones and other technological devices which catch students’ interests more effectively than simply face to face or online lessons.

 

This approach that began in March 2020 due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 forced our staff to accelerate their learning in how to teach effectively in this way. Our school utilises the HWB platform in which our pupils have access to Microsoft Windows free as well as other software which supports their creativity, learning and communication.

 

The biggest advantage of this style of teaching is that it enables us to turn the classroom on its head. In a flipped classroom the responsibility for the teaching process is in a sense transferred to the students, who can control access to content, spend all the time they need to learn and assess their understanding.

 

This blended or flipped approach to deep and meaningful learning will involve the following elements:

 

• An introduction on the subject to be covered

• Provide some guidance on identifying reliable sources

• Provide clear and attainable objectives that the lesson aims to achieve;

• Support the learning through some form of direct contact

• Providing some form of assessment or self-reflection

• Encourage and facilitate pertinent questions

• Develop class discussion and critical thinking

• Creating products: mind maps, PowerPoints, videos.

 

Where possible pre-recorded introductions to tasks will be used when direct contact is not possible. Pupils should make notes or answer questions prior to starting their research and watching videos or browsing the internet for sources suggested by the teacher.

 

 

We are aware that for some families distance learning has been, and will continue to be, difficult to manage. Some learners have found it hard to maintain motivation when working at home. Our approach to distance learning will always be mindful of the different circumstances families and learners might be facing during this period. In line with the education minister’s statement, supporting learners’ well-being whilst learning at home will always form part of our face to face well-being programme of support.