The Basis of Web-Based Contact Learning (Part 8): Organizing Practical Work in Distance Learning

Web-based Contact Learning ABC is a practical study material in conducting e-learning. This material helps teachers and trainers to organize webinars and e-learning efficiently and thoughtfully. The material is prepared by the lecturers of the Non-formal Education and Lifelong Learning study area of the School of Educational Sciences at Tallinn University in cooperation with the team of EDUSPACE research lab of teaching and learning.

People
Instructions for practical work

For student

  • Read the instructions from the beginning until the end. When meeting with a lecturer in an online environment, ask questions about work instructions. Give preference to direct communication with the lecturer by e-mail.

For teacher

  • Prepare work instructions in stages and distribute them to the students in parts. Include instructions for submitting the work in the guide: where to submit, deadline, how the feedback will be given, etc.

For school

  • Ensure a unified e-learning environment for the learner and the teacher, so that the learner receives information from one place and does not spend time adapting to different environments. This also makes it easier to provide educational and technological support.
Conducting practical work and giving feedback

For student

  • During distance learning, the teacher cannot directly evaluate your work. Sometimes you have to give feedback on your work according to the instructions received from the teacher, thus the teacher will involve you in the assessment process. You can also ask your family members for an assessment, for example, during the cooking. 

For teacher

  • When doing practical work, think about how to link the task to real life, for example, arranging a room with a hotel attendant at home. Think of different feedback options.

For school

  • If necessary, provide students with raw materials and resources for teaching, if necessary, also consider that the resources can be sent by post. Postage, which at first glance seems to be an additional cost, is compensated by the non-use of the premises, such as heating, electricity, disinfectants.
Reflections on practical work

For student

  • Think about how you can adapt the practical tasks for yourself and document the work process. Be creative, find opportunities at home. Analyze what additional skills you acquire in distance learning.

For teacher

  • If the student cannot carry out practical activities in a real work environment, then create a situation as similar to practice as possible. Assign tasks weekly, create activities, create opportunities for different solutions. You don't have to be ready for a solution for the whole period - enjoy the process!

For school

  • Trust the teacher and the student in finding the best solutions. Help to find resources, ask for feedback and suggestions, and support different processes and actors.