Free Resources for Schools Shifting Online During Coronavirus Pandemic
As the new coronavirus spreads throughout the country, more and more schools are canceling classes and shifting their in-person instructional time online. Many classroom teachers are now trying to understand the ins-and-outs of distance learning for the first time and looking for free online resources for schools. What does instruction look like? How do I ensure my students are still receiving high-quality education? Will I be able to track the learning that is taking place through online learning platforms for schools?
The good news is help is available! Many companies are offering teachers free or discounted access to their online learning platforms for schools during the pandemic. In the short term, a new education landscape is forming. We have put together a list of free online resources for schools, educators, and administrators to help them navigate these unfamiliar waters.
Whenever you are looking at utilizing a new online learning platform, it’s a good idea to check with your school and/or district to make sure it meets security and confidentiality guidelines. Zoombombing, where uninvited participants interrupt meetings, is prompting many schools and districts to take a closer look at how to protect students’ information. Northwestern University has shared guidelines for their staff to protect their meetings and respond to disturbances that you can apply to your own meetings. Knoji also released this list of tips for Teachers and Parents. If the resources on our list meet confidentiality requirements (FERPA, COPPA, etc.) we have listed that information in the description!
We will continue to monitor and update the resources listed here as new ones become available. Know of a resource we missed? Reach out to us at [email protected] to let us know.
For even more great content, check out our list of offline learning activities!