Is my student ready to learn online independently?

To be successful in online learning, your student will need to engage emotionally, behaviorally, and intellectually. This requires a variety of skills. No student will have all these abilities so don't be discouraged! Instead, use the lists below to . . .

anticipate where your student might need extra support
discuss with your student which skills they want to develop while they learn online

Want to practice? Print the cards and choose one skill to focus on each week.

Understanding Student Engagement

A student who is emotionally engaged in learning . . .

Shows curiosity and interest in learning.
Finds value and meaning in learning tasks.
Believes effort will lead to improvement ("growth mindset").
Is resilient when facing challenges.
Manages frustration, boredom, or anxiety.
Uses strategies (breaks, self-talk, asking for help) to manage emotions.
Feels connected to teachers, peers, and the learning environment.

A student who is physically engaged in learning . . .

Attends classes regularly and on time.
Stays on task even when the work is challenging or not exciting.
Follows through and completes assignments on time.
Manages schedules for class times and study routines.
Organizes materials and keeps track of assignments.
Uses time wisely and avoids distractions.
Monitors progress in learning management system.

A student who is intellectually engaged in learning . . .

Tries to understand ideas, not just memorize facts.
Uses strategies to solve problems or remember information.
Connects new ideas to previous knowledge.
Makes connections between concepts.
Asks "why" and "how" questions about learning.
Uses strategies like note-taking, summarizing, or creating study aids.
Thinks about how to learn best.

How Can I Help My Child Become an Independent Learner

One of the benefits of online learning is that it can help students grow into independent learners. To build that independence, start by offering plenty of support at first—then gradually step back as your child gains confidence and skills. The tips and quotes below from online parents show simple, effective ways to guide students toward becoming more self-directed learners.

Give more help at first and then withdraw the support as the student becomes more confident.

"I would make them do the lesson themselves because they were capable of that. But then I would go over the review portion of it. Then I would start weaning them off of that. If they got one wrong I would go over it with them. And then, I even stopped doing that, and I literally just kept an eye on their grades." — Parent of Online Learner

Plan time at the beginning of an online school year to get your child oriented. Teach them how to access course material, turn in an assignment, and check due dates and grades.

"They're getting better at staying on task, paying attention, and managing time. But in the beginning that was definitely a thing, like I've had to teach them how to set their alarms, and make sure that they stay accountable for themselves for attendance, and make sure that they're participating." — Parent of Online Learner

Involve your student in managing the daily schedule.

"I have him set timers for himself... to remember at this time I log in for my next live session or at this time I need to switch gears and start working on this other thing." — Parent of Online Learner

When something goes wrong, don't immediately step in and solve the problem for them.

"There's other times he's like, I don't get this like I'm so lost, and so I tell him that you got to pay attention. Go back, look at her work. Look at your notes. You're not just writing to write them. You need to write them and comprehend them." — Parent of Online Learner

Teach your student how to use the course materials to get help.

"You have access to your notes. You have access to the teacher's notes. And you can re-watch the zoom class because he records every class." — Parent of Online Learner

Have your student figure out what they are being asked to do.

"Write the question out. Look at the pieces. Look at what you need to do. Really think through what your teacher said." — Parent of Online Learner

Have your student practice seeking help from a teacher.

"If you're having a problem with [the teacher] moving too fast, you can email her. Or, there's like a little chat sign that says, 'Slow down.' You need to do that, you know." — Parent of Online Learner

Require students to be accountable.

"If the kids are older, I'm kind of empowering them to do more of this themselves and make sure you're checking grades every week. Make sure that you're not having something that's missing or outstanding. Make sure that you're really engaging in classes." — Parent of Online Learner

Help student learn to skills to manage emotions.

"My fifth grader gets frustrated and overwhelmed a lot. He kind of just shuts down. I told him, if that happens, put up your little restroom sign and take a break and shake it off." — Parent of Online Learner