Expert Speak: Virtual learning during the pandemic

The onset of the Covid-19 pandemic has led to a lot of unprecedented changes in the world. While technology is not a new addition to the classroom, the increased focus on digital tools during the pandemic put technology in a new light. With the myriad challenges and the need for transition to virtual learning, a path to spark creativity and engagement had to be devised while fostering confidence among the students. A perfectly blended, impeccable instructional model has empowered all the students to learn effectively.



The students and teachers had to adapt to remote learning which initially posed challenges, especially for the teachers, who have been striving to provide quality education without compromising on the process and techniques of teaching. They have been developing the digital format of the teaching material along with the seamless conduction of online classroom sessions.



An ethical learning process is set through well planned virtual sessions. The introduction of learning content to stimulate students’ cognitive activation has undoubtedly been a challenge. A blueprint is created for the students and the educators facilitate the learners as per their needs. The pace of teaching is aligned to the syllabus that needs to be covered within a stipulated time frame.



Fruitful discussions have enhanced life skills. The students have been empowered with compassion and sensitized towards inclusiveness. They are proactive in their learning approach, which is essential in both offline and online classroom environment. Teamwork is promoted by allotting time for the students to collaborate within groups, where they discuss their assignments and interact with each other virtually.



Bridging the gap between the desired and actual performance is the responsibility that we owe to society. Teachers’ feedback to students about their learning progress is essential. Diagnostic assessments and intervening with corrective action plan is imperative to ensure that online teaching is as effective as classroom teaching.



Remediation and motivation improve efficiency to accomplish the desired goals. Even before these challenging times, numerous digital instruments were available to support teaching. It is teachers’ self-efficacy that plays a pivotal role.



The provision of task differentiation for home schooling offers a means to reach out to all the students through adaptive teaching in a new landscape. Steady mode of communication with the students and their parents has been maintained on a regular basis. Cultivating the spirit of working in unison to create an all-inclusive social order is the need of the hour.



ICT has played a pivotal role in the modified structure. Online formative assessments have been a regular feature of the academic calendar. Regular examinations have been conducted in the relevant segments. The school firmly believes that value-based learning has far greater relevance in a dynamic and ever-changing environment. Keeping with the ethos, the school has been regularly organising cultural bonanzas. The learners are engaged in a plethora of activities kindling a sense of accomplishment.



The seeds for efficient virtual environment have been sown through webinars, workshops and online training courses including the ones on DIKSHA Platform. The aim is to sensitize educators to implement multisensory pedagogic processes in the classrooms and make learning joyful, reflective and multidisciplinary. There is no single strategy for success. Positivity, flexibility and empathy will lead the way to brilliance in pursuit for excellence. The unique essence of knowledge radiates perfection and wisdom for a promising future.



Shilpa Bhatnagar, principal, Bhatnagar International School, Vasant Kunj. Views expressed are personal

An ethical learning process is set through well planned virtual sessions. 

Cultivating spirit of working in unison is the need of the hour

An ethical learning process is set through well planned virtual sessions.

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