Getting Started With Home Based Learning
In Singapore, the term ‘home-based learning’ (HBL) refers to the practice of teaching remotely, with students receiving their lessons and finishing their homework at home rather than going to class in person. It is a flexible learning strategy that enables students to carry on with their education in exceptional situations or emergencies where it is not possible for them to physically attend school.
The goal of HBL in Singapore is to ensure educational continuity and reduce interruptions to students’ learning processes. It is a useful precaution in situations like pandemics or other emergencies that might necessitate the temporary closure of schools. HBL makes it possible for students to carry on with their studies and remain interested in the material, guaranteeing that their academic progress is unaffected.
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HBL also aims to use technology and digital platforms to improve the educational process. Students can access a variety of educational resources, interactive materials and online collaboration tools by utilising online tools. Students who use this strategy are encouraged to learn independently and to think critically and exercise self-control.
The development of 21st-century skills is another focus of HBL in Singapore. Students gain useful experience using technology, effectively using their time and adjusting to various learning environments. HBL promotes effective communication, problem-solving and self-directed learning through online platforms.
Overall, the goal of HBL in Singapore is to offer a solid and adaptable educational system that will enable students to continue their educational journey regardless of physical school attendance.
Overview of the Implementation of HBL During Covid-19 in Singapore
Home-based learning was a crucial strategy Singapore used during the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure students’ safety and well-being while maintaining their academic progress.
To reduce the risk of virus transmission while Singapore was at DORSCON Red during the pandemic, schools were temporarily closed. HBL was swiftly adopted by the Ministry of Education (MOE) as an alternative teaching strategy. The implementation involved a combination of synchronous and asynchronous learning activities, leveraging digital platforms and online resources.
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To ensure real-time interaction and instruction, teachers quickly modified their lesson plans and gave students live video lessons. To maintain student engagement and promote peer-to-peer learning, synchronised activities also included online discussions and group projects.
HBL also benefited greatly from asynchronous activities. Through the Student Learning Space (SLS), a national e-learning platform, students had access to pre-recorded lessons, digital resources and assignments. They could complete assignments at their own pace, turn them in online and get prompt feedback from their teachers.
Students without access to digital devices or stable internet connectivity received assistance from the MOE. There have been initiatives to provide low-income students with tablets or laptops and to help those in need of internet access. Schools made accommodations for students whose parents were frontline workers by offering small-group lessons that adhered to safe distancing measures.
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In order to make sure that their homes are conducive to learning and to help with any technical problems or academic questions, parents played a critical part in assisting their children’s HBL experience.
The MOE regularly communicated with schools, teachers, students and parents, providing clear guidelines and updates, supporting the implementation of HBL during COVID-19 in Singapore. While putting the health and safety of the entire school community first, the flexibility and resilience shown during this time helped ensure the continuation of education.
Current State of HBL in Singapore
Singaporean schools have adopted a blended learning approach that combines online and offline components. This strategy strikes a balance between asynchronous, self-paced learning activities and synchronous online lessons. In addition to offering offline materials and projects to encourage hands-on learning, it enables students to participate in interactive virtual classes.
In order to support HBL, the digital infrastructure has been improved. Students now have easier access to devices and high-speed internet, which reduces connectivity issues and ensures that everyone has the same opportunities. Efforts have been made to provide devices to students in need, ensuring that every student can actively participate in HBL.
Schools have put a lot of effort into improving the standard of online resources and content. Teachers have received training on how to create interesting online lessons and effectively use digital tools. Peer-to-peer interaction is made possible by the use of interactive platforms, video conferencing and digital collaboration tools.
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Schools have also put in place extensive support systems to address students’ well-being and mental health during HBL. In order to offer emotional support and preserve a sense of community, counseling services, online support groups and regular check-ins with teachers have been established.
A more efficient and student-focused HBL experience has been made possible by the integration of online and offline learning, improved digital infrastructure and improved support systems. Singapore is committed to using HBL to develop a resilient and adaptable educational system that equips students for the opportunities and challenges of the future, even as technology advances.
Technology and Tools for HBL
Online Learning Platforms and Systems Used in Singapore
To enable students to learn at home, Singapore uses a variety of online learning platforms and systems. Here are some of the most important online learning tools and tools used in Singapore for HBL.
Student Learning Space (SLS): SLS is a national online platform developed by the MOE in Singapore. It acts as a hub where students can access digital learning materials, turn in assignments and interact with teachers and fellow students. SLS provides a variety of multimedia resources, interactive lessons and e-books. In response to the evolving needs of students and educators, the area has been updated repeatedly over the years.
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Zoom and Microsoft Teams: Everyone has got really familiar with these platforms that have been widely used for synchronous online lessons and virtual interactions. They provide features for live video sessions, screen sharing, chat functions and breakout rooms to facilitate discussions and collaborative activities.
Learning Management Systems (LMS): Several Singaporean schools have started using LMSs like Moodle, Google Classroom or Canvas. These tools give teachers the ability to design and arrange course materials, delegate tasks and give students feedback. Platforms for learning management systems provide features like message boards, assignment submission and grading capabilities.
Online assessment Tools: Kahoot!, Quizizz or Socrative are frequently used to gauge students’ learning progress and comprehension. With the help of these platforms, educators can design engaging tests, surveys and assessments that increase student engagement.
National Digital Literacy Programs: Initiatives like Code for Fun, Cyber Wellness and Media Literacy aim to enhance digital literacy skills among students. These programs provide online resources, interactive activities and workshops to promote proficiency in coding and programming.
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Recommended Devices and Internet Connectivity for Successful HBL
Proper devices and dependable internet connectivity are essential for successful online learning. Here are some suggestions for technology and internet access to support efficient HBL.
Devices:
Laptop or Desktop Computer: A laptop or desktop computer is the best option for HBL because it has a bigger screen, a more comfortable keyboard and more processing power for multitasking.
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Headphones or Earphones: These help to minimise background noise and have clear audio during live video lessons or virtual meetings with peers and teachers. This improves concentration and effective communication, creating a more engaging learning experience.
Internet Connectivity:
Reliable Broadband Connection: A stable and high-speed internet connection allows students to access online resources, participate in video conferences and submit assignments without interruption. It is advised to use a broadband connection with a minimum speed of 10 Mbps.
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Mobile Data Plan: In the doomsday case when the Wi-Fi suddenly stops working, having a mobile data plan can serve as a backup option. Students are able to use their smartphones as hotspots to connect their learning devices to the internet.
When choosing devices and internet connectivity options for HBL, it is crucial for families to consider their unique needs and financial situation.
Guidelines and Best Practices for HBL
Setting Up a Conducive Learning Environment at Home
It’s crucial to establish a good home environment for HBL in order to keep students engaged, organised and focused on their studies.
First, set aside a space in your home specifically for studying. This could be a private space, a calm area’s corner or a neat desk. Distractions should not be present, and the area should have good lighting and ventilation. A pro tip is to check that your dedicated spot has a good connection to your home wireless network. To maintain proper posture and avoid discomfort or fatigue as students sit for extended periods of time, a supportive chair and an appropriate desk height are essential.
Place organisers, shelves and drawers in the study area to help you stay organised. Have designated spaces for textbooks, stationery and other learning materials. In addition to encouraging organisation, this makes it simpler for students to find and use their resources. Educational posters and banners are good visual additions that encourage and inspire learning.
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Devices and activities that might distract from learning should be turned off or access should be restricted. Establish guidelines and limits so that family members will respect your child’s study time. Keep all your child’s toys and devices away and remember to not pop in during their lesson time to remind them to do chores!
Managing Time and Creating a Daily Schedule for HBL
A daily schedule and effective time management are essential for Singapore’s home-based learning model to succeed. These recommendations can help students establish a routine and maximise their efficiency during HBL.
Start by creating a schedule that lists out the times the school recommends for in-person lessons, homework and online discussions. Set priorities by deciding which tasks are most important each day and concentrating on finishing them first. To keep a balanced workload, it’s crucial to set aside specific time slots for various subjects or tasks.
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Use time management strategies like the Pomodoro Technique, which involves working in 25-minute focused sessions interspersed with brief rest periods. Experiment with different techniques to find what works best for your child.
Review your child’s progress at the end of the day, taking note of both successes and areas that need work. Use this reflection to improve your schedule and make the necessary changes.
Strategies for Staying Focused and Motivated During HBL
One of the hardest things about HBL might be having to stay focused and motivated when your comfy bed is just right next to you. Students constantly have to fight the urge to give in and take a nap, especially after lunch! Here are some tips to help students stay focused and motivated!
Set incentives or rewards for achieving your goals to increase motivation. After finishing a difficult task or reaching a goal, reward yourself with something you enjoy.
Maintain your physical and mental health. Eat healthy meals, get enough sleep and work out frequently. Set aside time daily for self-care activities such as meditation or relaxation techniques to reduce stress and maintain a positive mindset.
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Curriculum and Lesson Delivery in HBL
Overview of Synchronous and Asynchronous Learning Activities
In order to give students thorough and interesting educational experiences, home-based learning makes use of both synchronous and asynchronous learning activities.
Synchronous learning activities involve real-time interactions between participants. This includes in-person video lectures delivered via platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams. With their teachers and peers, students can actively take part, ask questions and participate in discussions. In addition to encouraging social interaction and peer-to-peer learning, synchronous activities foster a sense of classroom community in a virtual environment.
Asynchronous learning activities, on the other hand, do not require real-time participation. Platforms like the Student Learning Space (SLS), a national e-learning platform in Singapore, allow students to access pre-recorded video lessons, digital resources and assignments. Students are able to work at their own pace, go over materials as needed, and turn in assignments by the deadline thanks to this. By letting students customise their HBL experience to suit their particular needs and preferences, asynchronous activities encourage self-directed learning, independence and flexibility.
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While asynchronous activities allow for flexibility, self-paced learning and the chance to review material, synchronous activities offer direct instruction, quick feedback and opportunities for interactive engagement. This blended approach aims to accommodate various learning preferences, keep students engaged and offer a comprehensive educational experience.
Adapting Practical Subjects and Hands-on Learning to an Online Format
During HBL, it has been extremely difficult to translate practical subjects and hands-on learning to an online format. But educators have worked incredibly hard to overcome this obstacle so that students can continue to study practical subjects even in a remote location.
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One strategy is to use online interactive tools and virtual simulations. Students have access to virtual laboratories, simulations or 3D models that simulate practical scenarios or real-world experiments. These tools give students a hands-on experience in a digital setting by enabling them to manipulate objects, conduct experiments and observe results virtually. Imagine doing a Chemistry experiment right from the comfort of your home instead of in a lab!
Teachers also produce how-to videos that demonstrate real-world methods, walk viewers through specific steps and define ideas. Students can watch these videos and participate while learning about the subject’s practical applications.
Using everyday items for practical experiments is another creative tactic. Teachers create tasks or experiments that can be completed at home with materials that are readily available. This fosters practical skills and creativity by encouraging students to explore and apply concepts in a comfortable environment.
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Although translating practical subjects into an online format might not perfectly replicate the hands-on experience, these creative methods have allowed Singaporean students to carry on with their practical learning journeys during HBL. To make sure that students get a well-rounded education even in difficult situations, educators constantly research new technologies, tools and approaches that can be implemented.
Collaboration and Interaction with Teachers and Classmates
Collaboration and interaction with peers and teachers are crucial components of traditional classroom learning as well as HBL. It’s nearly impossible to participate in a lesson without interacting with your teacher or peers, and there are frequent tasks that require teamwork from everyone. Various techniques and platforms have been used to encourage meaningful engagement and create a sense of (online) classroom community despite the physical distance!
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Peer to peer and student to teacher communication is also maintained through the use of asynchronous communication channels like email, discussion boards and messaging platforms in addition to live sessions. With the aid of these platforms, students can actively participate, communicate with their teachers and peers in real time and ask questions. Teachers can answer questions, give immediate feedback and lead interactive activities to create a dynamic and interesting learning environment.
During HBL, group projects and assignments are also encouraged! Through the use of shared documents and online collaboration tools, students work virtually together on projects. This fosters a sense of camaraderie and mutual support by encouraging teamwork, problem-solving abilities and peer learning.
During live classes, Singaporean teachers may use breakout rooms or small group discussions to promote interaction. This enables students to interact meaningfully, exchange ideas and work together on particular subjects or projects in smaller groups.
Image Credit: https://owis.org/sg/blog/building-positive-student-teacher-relationships-during-home-based-learning-hbl/
