There is seldom an event that impacts all people around the world in the way that COVID-19 has. No matter what country you are in or what media you read, you are sure to be confronted with the latest coronavirus stats and news, as well as advice from all types of political, social and economic commentators, organisations and self-proclaimed experts; if not on recognised media channels then for sure on social media.

Blended or online learning is not a new topic; the first generation of web-based instruction started in the late nineties, and since then much has changed, but few will argue that it has not been tested like it is being now. With the popularity of the topic in current times, there is a proliferation of information and communication available, and it can be difficult to discern the level of authority and expertise of the sources.

The International Association of International Schools in Africa (AISA) recognised the challenge this situation created for its members, and quickly set up access to vetted resources and tools for its member schools’ heads, educators, counsellors and education professionals. “This included setting up strategic partnerships with reputable and recognised professionals in critical fields during this time,” says Peter Bateman, Executive Director of AISA. “When it comes to blended learning, one of the most highly respected and sought-after experts on the subject is Catlin Tucker, whom AISA has had the pleasure of working with on many occasions in the past, and has now secured her services through COVID-19.”

A Google Certified Innovator, bestselling author, international trainer, and keynote speaker, Catlin Tucker is a blended learning coach whose books include, ‘Blended Learning in Grades 4-12’, ‘Blended Learning in Action’, and ‘Power Up Blended Learning’. Her most recent book, ‘Balance with Blended Learning: Partner with Your Students to Reimagine Learning and Reclaim Your Life’, was published this year.

AISA members have access to Catlin’s expertise in various ways; she has made her resources available, is currently leading a series of customised webinars and engages with AISA members on the association’s Blended Learning Discussion Forum. All of these are accessible on this site, the AISA COVID-19 Support Portal.

To date, Catlin has covered topics such as:

• How to Flip Instruction and Engage Students Who Are Learning Online
• How to Have Safe Meets with Students
• How to Prioritise Health and Wellbeing During School Closures
• How to Ensure Academic Honesty During Online Learning
• How to Sustain Online Learning over Long Periods

Her upcoming webinars include:

• Designing Learning Experiences for Younger Students (K-5) and their Parents: 21 April 2020
• Designing a Multi-Week Learning Experience with the 5E’s Instructional Model: 28 April 2020
• 5 Steps to Successful Online Discussions (Grade 6-12): 5 May 2020

“Catlin’s webinars, discussion forums, and resources are of our most popular, and more and more of our members are registering to benefit from her coaching,” concludes Peter. “We strongly suggest that, if you have not already done so, you register to participate in these opportunities.”

The philosopher, psychologist, and education and social reform influencer, John Dewey once said; “If we teach today’s students as we taught yesterday’s, we rob them of tomorrow”. Well, Catlin is certainly supporting our members to effectively teach students in today’s reality.