Highlight: “Today is a historic day. I started to speak a new language and to make new friends, using a new language. I think I will no longer be a “digital immigrant”. And now I will get a better understanding of how our digital natives think. ”

Dear Parents,

Today, all of us were taking turns, students and teachers. Even though we were far away from each other, the excitement of the on-screen meetings was strong. The first experience of the virtual lessons has shown us that WE CAN provide continuity in the learning process.

Once again it has been proven that children find it easiest to adapt, and we, the others, are following in their footsteps. The four virtual lessons today gave us all a sense of pride and relief due to the enthusiasm, punctuality and seriousness of the children.

We have tested many educational theories today: virtual reality learning, cooperative learning, learning by doing, gradual transfer of responsibility, differentiated instruction, flexible grouping and a growth mindset.

Sofia was so eager to go live that she started chatting on Tuesday. Maya has shown us how great it is to be on stage, especially when you are ‘multitasking’. Ștefan walked us around the world with Virtual Screen Background. Theodora has used almost all the devices to make sure she knows what to do. Edi and Robert are already juggling the Raise Hand and Lower Hand buttons. Alex let himself be conquered by the magic buttons Mute, Unmute and Annotate. Bogdan explained what happens on the screen when one of the participants speaks. Ada and Maya retweeted the theme details in the Stream window in Google Classroom. Ilinca and Ana overcame all the technical obstacles, managing to connect on ZOOM. Kara, Mara and David requested extra hours to improve their communication skills through Share Screen. Almost all of the children contributed to the simulation of a theme at PBL, using a digital design tool to be able to Submit and Turn in the theme.

Today is a historic day. I started to speak a new language and make new friends, using a new language. I think I will no longer be a “digital immigrant”. And now I will get a better understanding of how our digital natives think.

We couldn’t have done it without your help. Therefore, we thank you for your support and we invite you to give us a brief feedback, by accessing the form (hidden link)

We continue to communicate through Engage, Google Classroom, Whatsapp and ZOOM platforms.

With optimism,

Mari Nicolae

Virtual Form Tutor, Avenor College