This week in class we discussed the benefits and drawbacks of distance learning. We used a strategy called MAD TEA, where we stood in pairs in a circle. The pairs faced each other and discussed the questions on the board and then when the bell rang they moved to the next partner. I liked this strategy because it ensured that everyone in the class got a chance to speak their thoughts which might not have happened in a regular class discussion. Also, it would be good because students who are shy and don’t want to speak in front of the whole class can still have a chance to share their ideas. I think I would use this strategy in my classroom in the future.

I believe that there are a lot of benefits to online and distance learning, but there are a lot of drawbacks as well. In some situations, I think it has its place but I don’t think it should be the norm. For example, I think that during the pandemic it has been invaluable as a way for students to keep going to school and interacting with peers when they otherwise wouldn’t be able to. On the other hand, I don’t think that it is an adequate substitute for in-person learning and social interaction.

I think that google classroom can be a good resource for curating all of the PowerPoint and resources in a class, but I do worry a little bit about the lack of separation between school and home when school is always available on google classroom.