At 7 a.m., Desiree Lozano, a kindergarten teacher at Hemmerling Elementary School, gets ready to head to her empty classroom to set up for her online teaching. This became an everyday occurrence since school started on August 12, 2020. Sitting at her desk, mask on, she prepares for a day of teaching, hoping that all of her students can make it. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Banning Unified School District decided to start this school year online instead of in person. Teachers, parents, and students are all struggling with this change that has become a part of their lives. It’s tougher for those who lack a good internet connection or who had no internet in the first place. “It is … [Read more...] about Teachers, parents, and students on the struggles of online learning during COVID-19
online learning
Continuation of virtual learning amid the shift to the semester system
Students faced two challenges before the Fall 2020 semester began: virtual classes and conversion to semesters from quarters. Online classes were an option pre-COVID, but have now become mandatory for many classes. Students have missed the ability to physically socialize with past and new classmates. Brenda Salas Melgoza, a junior and transfer student, says, “I’ve had online classes before so I’m used to it but it is way different with the pandemic since I can’t socialize much.” Even though Melgoza previously took online classes, she feels as if this time around she can't have that much of a life outside of school. On the other hand, some don’t mind the conversion. Melissa Loera, who … [Read more...] about Continuation of virtual learning amid the shift to the semester system
Students strive for distraction-free learning at home
Zoom meetings have become the new norm for many college students throughout the nation. However, this new way of learning can become very distracting for the students and professors. There are many potential distractions at home for students to succumb to in the middle of lectures. Some distractions might include the TV being on, the phone pinging with notifications, and pets and children who are seeking attention. It is difficult for everyone to not be on a college campus, inside a classroom where there are minimal distractions, and to know that there are consequences to be faced for those who conduct disruptive behavior for trying to distract others. While Zoom meetings are … [Read more...] about Students strive for distraction-free learning at home