Virtual Learning: Some Thoughts
Welcome back! Today, let's talk about school. Ah yes, the great institution of learning experienced by so many of us, enabling us to go into the world and contribute to society... and that is currently shut (or at least, here it is). Don't get me wrong, I would much rather stay off school and prevent the spread of covid, but part of me does long for a sense of normality that really, very few of us have felt for the best part of nine months. However, I shall remain grateful for my access to education with the use of technology, and indeed at all, while so many do not have the privilege.
What with the pandemic, my exams have been cancelled for the year, but we are still sitting assessments- prelims, mocks, whatever you wish to call them. I got my results back for my first set! Five A's, with the subject prize for Classics! I'm quite proud, and I feel I have a right to be after my hard work. However, you'll notice I said five A's, yet I took six subjects... alas. The time has come for me to face the reality, that in maths, I got... a D. Yep. I know what you're thinking- "Yikes, a D?" Yes, that's what I thought too. I would just like to make it abundantly clear that maths, as you can probably tell, is not my strongest suit. In fact, the only reason I'm taking it is because it is mandatory, and- presuming I pass this year- I will 100% be dropping it next year. In the meantime though, my efforts will be focused towards passing.
I think it's important to address the significance of this year as a turning point for the education system. For the first time, schools have been virtual, giving an entirely new perspective on learning methods to teachers and students alike. However it is impossible to ignore the impact of virtual learning on low-income households, communities, and people in compromised living situations. I am incredibly lucky to have access to the technology required to thrive in an online learning situation, but for so many people this is just not the case. The playing field is anything but fair, and the effects of pupils having different levels of access to virtual learning will definitely be noticed in prelim results. With, perhaps, a change in how we view education in the future, and in particular learning methods, this is a conversation that will grow and develop, as it rightly should, on how we can make learning accessible to everyone as possible.
If you are within an academic setting, I encourage you to take some time to mull over the privilege of technology as most of us experience. This year has been a challenge for us to recognise our privilege in so many ways, and if there is anything the past year has taught me, is not to take my privilege for granted, and to lift up those without. Have conversations with peers, teachers, parents, siblings, or whoever you would like, about improving circumstances for those who are less able to thrive in this time of technological revolution, and ways you can improve the equality of education for others. And, most importantly, appreciate your tech! You don't need to have a brand new phone or state-of-the-art computer to try and prove you're dedicated to your studies- you just need hard work.
On another note: DEAR GOODNESS HOW HAVE I NOT HEARD ATLANTIS BY SEAFRET BEFORE??????! Crazy stuff. Highly impressed. If anyone is reading this (probably not) leave me some music suggestions!!!!