Post MCO: ‘The New Normal’ and Students.
Written by Charmaine Cheong Shen May, Edited by Rifqi Faisal and Researched by Team MYER.
As the world slowly reawakens from its MCO-induced slumber, there is the realisation that a shift has happened and with it, a rising uncertainty in how to navigate our new reality — one that is filled with social distancing, financial uncertainty and being extra mindful of our sanitation.
What does this new normal mean for students?
For students that spend most of their time in school tightly surrounded by peers, be it in the classroom or the ride to and from school, there are so many things to consider. How can schools, the government and students themselves work to ensure their health and safety?
According to the UNESCO: COVID-19 education response, there are several conditions that need to be met before schools can reopened: the first and foremost being the disinfection of school grounds and its utilities (which is well called for after two months of lockdown), as well as the installation of sanitary facilities such as hand sanitizers, soap and places to wash hands.
While simple, these steps will stand at the forefront of preventing infections. Schools will also have to consider adjusting their protocols and placements of their students and staff by limiting the number of individuals per class through the implementation of a rotation schedule or using other, larger spaces on the premises for classes.
Unfortunately, not everyone has the privilege of walking away from the isolation period unscathed. In fact, many students may be struggling with socio-economic changes from a loss of income, a lack of nutrition or social support, or been exposed to abuse or trauma while in quarantine. All these things can affect a student’s ability to learn and more than anything, empathy and understanding is key in creating an environment where students can feel safe and learn.
The things that need to be considered in order to reopen schools.
Safe Operation.
The last thing anyone needs during a pandemic is confusion and uncertainty. This is where the government comes in to play a vital role in guiding schools on how to proceed with reopening while making the whole operation as crystal clear as possible.
A big, unavoidable thing that will accompany everyone into their journey into ‘The New Normal’ is social distancing. With more people stepping out into public spaces, the government should erect clear guidelines and protocols regarding social distancing measures and what large gatherings are allowed (and if they are, how will social distancing be enforced then?). In ‘The New Normal’, lunchtimes and school dismissals can no longer be held at once but rather, require to be staggered.
Start slow and steady by reopening schools in stages, beginning with several days a week and building to full week classes, or having certain years come in on certain assigned days. With rotation schedules in mind, schools also need to be ready to accommodate any personnel absences due to health-related issues and ensure that all of their students will be able to access classes from their homes.
Those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may not possess the technology nor stable wifi connection required to attend class which require schools to figure out solutions that will work regardless of status. If left unsolved, this issue could result in a disparity of skills between students in lower and higher socioeconomic statuses.
Focus On Learning
The status quo would also be a great opportunity for schools to encourage collaborative learning culture where students will be encouraged to work with and learn from one another while developing self management skills. It’s a skill that’s highly demanded outside of the classroom and prevents students from becoming dependent on classroom teaching.
In a world where everything is becoming digital, introducing students to online learning tools and techniques can also equip them with the necessary skills to thrive if they encounter other instances where they have to be quarantined at home.
Teachers, being the ones who spend the most time interacting with students, will play a vital role in ensuring their needs are met and lessons get back on track. It is important they are trained and equipped to deal with any changes that they may see in their students post-MCO and adjust their methods of teaching to suit those who struggle with returning to old routines post-social isolation.
Also, keeping in mind that some students may no longer be accustomed to classroom lessons as a result of months-long quarantine, thus needing a more involved and hands-on approach. On the bright side, this allows for teachers to get creative with their teaching and think outside of the box. It’s a change that teachers and students may find exciting!
Wellbeing and Protection.
In the case of any crisis, those from marginalised communities will always be hit the hardest and will have trouble staying afloat. Extra attention should be allocated to these vulnerable communities and in the realm of education, this can be done by diversifying critical outreach by making them available in relevant languages, accessible formats and tailoring them to populations of concern, as well as directing funds to schools and its students that have been hit the hardest by the pandemic. To go a step further would be funding food and stationary for low income families, as well as waiving school fees and costs!
With so many uncertainties produced by the pandemic still in the air, students will need all the support they can get. PTSD suffered by students from traumatic experiences during quarantine will have to be prioritised by governments and schools, with counsellors being prepared to help students with their mental health and psychosocial (MHPSS) needs. For the students that need mental support, we must give it to them.
The Conclusion.
The reopening of schools are inevitable if politicians want students who do not have adequate access to technology to continue learning and prosper. Thus, the Ministry of Education must follow guidelines set by the respective governemental bodies in order to manuever around this situation.
Subsequently, schools too must play a role in heavily enforcing such guidelines and go above and beyond to ensure their students are still able to cope with school as well as completing their studies.
