VOTE-BY-MAIL WORRIES: A ‘LEAKY PIPELINE’ IN MANY STATES
cognitive development and limit engagement, lowering overall grades.
INSIDE OF THE APPLE ECOSYSTEM
Google and Microsoft have stepped up to the plate during the coronavirus pandemic with the implementation of new features for Google Meet and Microsoft Teams, and Apple, too, has made it easier than ever to learn from home. From the humble iPad to the state-ofthe-art iMac Pro, the Cupertino company offers cutting-edge tech designed for homework, live streaming, research, and more. iPhones, too, with their large screens, are an accessible tool for watching teachers’ live streams and pre-recorded lessons, whilst an abundance of apps on the App Store means children can learn in their own time. According to data from USA Today, one in five teachers won’t return to school this year, and 60% of parents in the US are considering homeschooling, demonstrating the virus’s long-term impact on our family lives. With apps like TeachMe covering spelling, math, and letter writing, rewarding students with stars and coins as they “level up” and learn, it’s never been easier to teach your children yourself. Duolingo ABC is another contender, teaching via colorful games. From dragging letters to listening to and repeating sounds, learning doesn’t have to be boring.
Apple’s free software - from GarageBand to help students develop a passion for music, though to Pages and Numbers for literacy and numeracy - is also vital for modern at-home teaching, whilst the iPad and Apple Pencil has revolutionized the way kids learn and express
themselves. Add in Apple TV, which features AirPlay to stream educational apps, videos, and content, and Apple News to keep students of all ages up-to-date with current affairs, and it’s clear Apple is a forerunner when it comes to homeschooling. Apple TV+, which recently premiered Oprah’s Book Club to inspire reading and Helpsters, a fun, educational show for preschoolers, is another valuable resource, whilst an upcoming kid-friendly update on Apple Watch will keep children active.
On-campus, Apple Classroom offers a powerful and customizable user interface for iPad and Mac, allowing teachers to guide learning, share work, and manage student devices. Apps can be deployed and launched across dozens of devices, and textbooks can be uploaded with a couple of clicks, helping teachers create at-home learning environments for their students. Back in 2017, it was revealed the iPad was the most popular tablet in schools and in markets like the United Kingdom,
70% of kids have access to one. Apple does face stiff competition, though, with Google aggressively marketing its Chromebooks to schools.
Around the world, 25 million students now use a Chromebook at school, 30 million use Google Classroom, and 80 million students use G Suite for Education, cementing Google as the biggest edutech player.
PUTTING SAFETY FIRST
Whether our children are studying at home or in the classroom, safety must always come first - especially in today’s challenging times. Some schools are practicing social distancing or putting students into small “bubble” groups
to reduce the transmission of the virus. Others have taken more dramatic steps, and in Wuhan, where the coronavirus outbreak began, kids are being forced to wear face masks and are separated via see-through screens. In the UK, schools won’t be required to practice social distancing when they return, as scientists there believe children don’t spread the virus, and class sizes may be doubled to help kids catch up on lost time. Generally, schools are working hard to protect staff and students, installing new sanitation stations, encouraging social distancing where possible, and staggering lunchtimes to reduce crowds.
At home, security should also be a priority. From document exchange to conferencing apps like Zoom and FaceTime, parents should monitor their children’s online activity, and install apps to limit activities that aren’t related to studying. It could also be wise to buy a dedicated computer or tablet for lesson times, reducing the likelihood of your children procrastinating or playing games when they should be studying. Blocking inappropriate websites should be a priority and monitoring screen time will ensure kids spend time away from their devices.
The gradual return to schools, colleges, and universities in the coming months won’t come without its hurdles, and as a parent, it’s natural to feel anxious. Following government and scientific advice, encouraging social distancing and remote studying where possible, and supporting your children as they reintegrate is our best advice. With the right attitude and technology, we can help the next generation catch up on classes and keep the world ticking.