Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Who will teach students online?
A. All remote learning teachers are qualified DSBN secondary teachers who are specifically assigned to teach online.
Q. Will attendance be taken?
A. Daily attendance by period is not taken. Instead, attendance is generated by logging into each course on a regular basis. Students who do not log into a course for 10 consecutive school days will be referred to a Student Success Teacher and Attendance Counsellor. Students with 15 days of consecutive absences will be removed from the course on the 16th day.
Q. Are the learning hours flexible?
A. Yes. The schedule of the secondary remote learning program is asynchronous. Students may sign into their courses at any time. The platform used for online courses (D2L) tracks when and how long students log into each course. Students are highly encouraged to sign into their courses on a daily basis at a time of their choosing.
Q. Last year my student was connected to their home school. Will this still happen?
A. No. This year all fully remote learning students will be registered through Adult and Continuing Education and the connection to the Home School will not be maintained. For example, graduating students will receive their diploma and have the option to participate in ceremonies through the Adult and Continuing Education Centre in June.
Q. Is remote learning as good as in-person learning for all students?
A. Although remote learning served a very distinct purpose during the COVID 19 pandemic, experience tells us that it is a challenging way for most students to learn. Based on two years of data and observations, we know that extended periods of time in remote learning can have negative impacts on learning for students who struggle with initiative, attention and/or independent learning. The DSBN strongly recommends in-person learning as the best option for all students.
Q. What happens if my student has questions or is falling behind?
A. Your student will be able to ask questions and interact with the teacher throughout the semester. All teachers will have scheduled times when students will be able to reach them in real time to ensure that they receive additional support. Checking in to your student’s D2L learning space daily is an important way of ensuring your student does not fall behind. Just like in school, parents can reach out to the teacher to discuss their student’s progress.
Q. Will my student receive a report card?
A. Yes. All students in remote learning will receive the Ontario Ministry of Education report card issued by Adult and Continuing Education at the same time as their peers in schools.
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