I read an article today regarding how to develop successful virtual learners. It noted that those that had consistent parental support succeeded more frequently than those that did not have this advantage. Yet, most households do not have stay at home parents. Further, depending on the student’s grade, parents may not be able to help, even if time was not a limiting factor. I am not talking just about high school calculus. I know parents that do not understand some of the ways that teachers do elementary math. How does a parent provide that support?

1. Help student help themselves

Sometimes verbalizing steps activates the memory of how to do something. “How did the teacher do this” “Can you show me an example that the teacher did or on a different assignment?” “What is the first thing you do when…?”

2. Allow the child to be the teacher

If this does not spark the child’s memory, try watching the learning video with them and make the child the expert. “Teach me how to do this assignment.” This is especially useful with younger children. From my experience this not only increases the ability to recall the information, but also triggers increased interest and effort. 

3. Peer Support

Reach out to a classmate. Research shows that peer to peer assistance provides a great resource for not only academic information, but also to maintain social connections.  And opportunities for socialization decrease as students work online.

4. Communicate with the teacher

Also reach out to the teacher regarding the class. In my experience teachers reply to request for help with additional supports, examples, and/or individualized videos or meetings. Just like in class, ASK THE TEACHER!

5. Internet supports

If all else fails use some of the great online resources out there including Khan Academy for Math, Purdue Owl for writing papers, and many more resources exist with a simple search.

6. Virtual Education Consultant

Finally, hire a virtual education consultant. What is this? This is me, a paid consultant relieves the stress of being the bad guy. As a special education teacher, I frequently contact students regarding missing, late, or otherwise unacceptable work. I work as a support between the teacher, student, and family to provide organization strategies to help with work completion, scheduling to help with turning work on time, and support on many subjects that need a different method of explanation. 

These are my favorite quotes from students:

“I wouldn’t have graduated high school without Mrs. R; she believed in me when no one else did.”

“You are the main reason I will graduate high school on time.”

Those students and many more needed a bit more personalized attention, than other students. They needed another layer of accountability, not just parents complaining that they did not get their work completed. 

Whatever the barrier, I would like to provide personalized support and to help develop a plan for success.

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