While this time of crisis demands an immediate response, educators and policymakers point out that we should also take this disruption as an opportunity to rethink the model of schooling that will best serve all students in the future. From this experience we can learn how to make education relevant, flexible, competency-driven, equitable, and integrated with other social supports such as food and health services.

Experts argue that while schools are closed and even once they are back in session children need the opportunity to engage in creative play. Students and parents are living with a great deal of stress, and play can be a part of the cure for children stuck at home. Evidence shows that play is vital for the development of physical and mental health as well as cognitive and creative capacity.

Universities across Canada have taken a range of approaches towards grading in the wake of school disruptions, including many moving to a pass/fail system. Article notes Ontario secondary schools may also benefit from adopting this approach rather than putting pressure on teachers and students to determine alphanumeric grades. He argues that using a simple pass/fail grading scheme may have benefits.

Many school districts are instinctively reaching to online learning while schools are closed, but this article encourages educators to consider what type of distance learning is the best for their students. Different types of learning can take place online, from small to large groups, and from direct instruction to inquiry-based learning. Educators should consider their students’ learning needs when setting up their class’ online learning experience.

The Global Education Innovation Initiative (GEII) at the Harvard Graduate School of Education and the Directorate of Education and Skills collaborated to develop a framework for education leaders globally. The framework advises leaders to take a proactive approach, reprioritize curricular goals and develop a continuity of operations plan, and actively pursue innovative partnerships.

In collaboration wiht the Department of Education and private educational providers, the BBC is running six different shows daily for children between 5-14 years for 14 weeks from April 20. The shows are 20 minutes long and have accompanying materials (e.g. videos, quizzes, and podcasts) on the BBC website.