Where Have The Children Gone? learning in the e-space

Earlier this year, I returned to study after a significant break. All of my units are delivered online, a mode of study I was completely unfamiliar with prior to beginning this course. I was expecting my units of study to involve readings and assignments, and I didn't expect it consume much of my time or for it to have any real impact on me. I am delighted to say I was completely wrong! I have become part of a vibrant community of learners and who I am as a student and future educator has been completely transformed. My world expanded.

My son's experience with online learning is in stark contrast to my own. Due to health reasons, the face to face school he had been attending was not capable of supporting his learning needs and he move to online learning to complete senior. Constant technical difficulties and limited interaction with teachers and other students made it difficult for him to connect with learning and caused him considerable stress. His health declined further and his world became a smaller place.

Online learning can make it possible for students and teachers to connect with information and with each other all over the world, but when our education system uses online learning as a one stop, set and forget solution to the problem that is students who are not well enough to attend face to face school every day, and the student's learning and socialization needs are not adequately met, it's time for us to reassess the way we provide education to unwell children to ensure they are not disadvantaged, and that they have the best chance at health, education and inclusion in society.

Below is a link to a report about students who miss school due to health issues, and the responsibilities of educators to ensure they are not disadvantaged.

http://missingschool.org.au/resources/research/who-are-they/