In this latest Think Education podcast Judith and Chris carry on their discussion about education in Dubai and look again at how the changes are being implemented, managed and experienced.
We discussed the true impact that this current situation is having on students and teachers amid the recent cancellation of IB exams across the region. We talked about how decisions like this are never taken lightly and the clear evidence of how the ministry is working to ensure that those students impacted are not disadvantaged beyond the necessary.
With that having been said, the disruption to education has of course been felt by all. Many universities have recently announced the continuation of distance learning until the end of the semester and this decision has been made as a direct response to our collective duty of care to our students. Creating a semblance of balance and continuity is important as we can then plan and work accordingly. Keeping safe and following formal guidelines, both in daily life and for education.
This brought us back to the notion of community. What is it and how do we support it? The current climate is not one of lock-down, as it was during the pandemic, and so students are more mobile and have more ability to engage in person with their peers. We follow the official guidelines to protect our safety and remain grateful for the level of care and security we are offered living here in Dubai.
Judith wondered whether technology is breaking down barriers to engagement or creating new ones? We talked about the digital community and the advantages this has during times like this. Chris also reflected on the presence of students on his campus and the constant sense of discussion and engagement that he sees on a daily basis. Students are not a purely digital community, and we need to support this where we can.
Somethings are very normal and somethings are very different. In this time of crisis, we are experiencing small changes and big changes, and the key is in how we manage this through our communities and the way in which we communicate the message.
Normal is as normal does.
#distancelearning #resiliance #community #communication #managingchange #students #university
