The teaching tool schools need most for distance, remote and hybrid learning

Schools need device management software that can handle hybrid and remote learning systems

Administrators, educators, and parents are all getting more familiar with the new educational lexicon: distance learning, remote learning, and hybrid learning. But how well do we understand the differences between these three learning modalities? Based on these differences, how can the educational experience be enhanced to best serve students and educators alike in all settings? And, importantly, how can schools be prepared to implement each and every one of these systems when needed?

The difference between distance, remote and hybrid learning

Make remote, distance or hybrid learning fun and functional

While on the surface these three terms may seem similar, there are actually some important differences. The definition of remote learning is where the student and teacher remain separated by time and/or distance during classes. This means that the traditional classroom setting, where both teacher and students are in one location, is completely absent.

Distance learning is used more often in a college or university setting. Here, the instructor assigns reading and coursework for the semester and students will have to manage their own schedules to complete the subject. There are no set schedules for traditional lectures or even classroom gatherings with fellow students. While the term distance learning is often applied to baccalaureate and post-baccalaureate programmes, it’s regularly used interchangeably with remote learning.

Finally, hybrid or blended learning, combines the traditional classroom teaching system with online/remote activities. It offers the face-to-face elements of classroom teaching and the technology-heavy video conferencing style of remote learning. Put simply, hybrid learning is when classroom instruction can accommodate both physically present and remotely connected students.

But schools are reopen…

Hybrid learning is poised to bridge the gap between distance learning and in-person instruction with schools now reopen.

More than a year into the pandemic, in-person activities in business and education are steadily resuming. While the United Nations Educational, Cultural, and Scientific Organization (UNESCO) reported that 177 million out of 923 million schools remain closed, the rest of the world have either partially opened schools (US, Germany, Brazil, etc.), or fully resumed in-person classroom activities (Canada, Russia, China, etc.).

Given that the rapid transition from in-person instruction to online classes took much time, effort and resources to execute, will the change back be just as difficult? Fortunately, the answer is most likely no. The return to classroom instruction may not be as difficult thanks to educational technology tools and integrative methods. Chief among these are hybrid learning systems.

Why hybrid learning?

Hybrid learning was an instructional option long before the pandemic. Born out of the desire to capitalise on the benefits of both in-person and distance learning, hybrid learning still has its limitations. Much of these have to do with the availability of educational technology and reliable internet connections, as well as the lingering issues of classroom management that occur in the online environment.

In the hybrid model, teachers are often required to be more deliberate in their educational planning even in the best of circumstances. Educational tools must be easy to use, reliable and up-to-date for this method to be successful.

While hybrid learning seems to be the best of both worlds, there are remaining challenges…

Radix TeacherView lets schools manage hybrid, remote and distance learning

Whether students are there in-person, online, or a mix of both, instructors must maintain classroom management.

Given the unpredictability of the pandemic, schools will find it advantageous to stay ready for any eventuality. Whether their area’s situation calls for an extended stay-at-home order, full reopening of schools, or a combination of both, it pays to have an educational software system to manage teaching activities.

Radix TeacherView offers the ability to handle remote, hybrid or distance learning requirements. This means the system can easily switch to a different mode as soon as schools require a shift to remote, hybrid or distance learning. This provides school districts utmost convenience and flexibility to quickly adapt to what the schools need.

In particular, Radix TeacherView lets instructors handle the different requirements needed for effective online teaching using a single platform. The software handles learning management, video conferencing, and classroom management via a single easy-to-use and intuitive interface. Additionally, TeacherView provides access to all three functions so that instructors won’t need to switch between apps to maintain control of the class.

Classroom management

Radix TeacherView lets instructors take remote command of students’ connected devices and lock their use to authorised applications only. Instructors can also approach individual students for one-on-one coaching sessions or to call their attention. And TeacherView can be used to monitor each students’ activities when logged in.

Not only does this help educators stay in touch with their students, but it also helps keep their digital safety a priority.

Learning management

Radix TeacherView provides access to all coursework, files and other documents needed in class. Instructors can assign, send, share or collect study materials and interactive reports. Teachers can also remotely access student devices to check project status or check completed assignments. At the same time, they can activate and share interactive whiteboards to promote collaboration with students during learning sessions.

Video conferencing

Standard video conferencing tools like Zoom and Google Meet do not provide enough in terms of personalisation and ease-of-use.

Radix TeacherView features a built-in video conferencing feature so that instructors won’t need to switch between apps when presiding over a class. Teachers can also utilise screen-sharing, and simultaneous website launches for enhanced interactive sessions with students making for a much better experience for all.

Radix Teacherview

Learn more about how Radix TeacherView can help manage the classroom, whether in a hybrid, remote, or distance learning setting. Visit Radix and see the full array of solutions for your school system device management needs. You can also contact our sales team and request a free trial.

Leave a Reply