Coronavirus in UAE: Online classroom model for Sharjah schools to be ready by next week

Sharjah - Distance learning shall serve as an alternative to keep students on track with their studies as schools close.

A distance learning model for private schools in Sharjah shall be ready by next week, with five schools assigned to help in preparations, the Sharjah Private Education Authority (SPEA) has said.
The SPEA started discussions on the e-learning implementation, following the Ministry of Education's decision to start spring break at an earlier date, as part of safety measures to protect communities against  Covid-19.
Distance learning shall serve as an alternative to keep students on track with their studies as schools close for four weeks starting Sunday.
The SPEA meeting, participated in by the Board of Directors of Private Schools, tackled how smart learning systems and applications can be used to allow teachers and students to access lessons via computers or mobile phones. 
Dr Muhaditha Al Hashemi, chairwoman of the SPEA, said: "After the issuance of the ministerial directives for the distance learning initiative, the authority immediately started applying the procedures for implementing the initiative, and examining possible preparations to facilitate it ... in order to ensure the safe and secure progress of the educational process."
Cooperation hailed
Ali Al Hosani, director of the SPEA, added that they have already issued a set of administrative and guidance decisions to guarantee the protection of students.
"The response to it was outstanding, and we salute in this regard all the educational and teaching institutions for their efforts, and the parents who expressed their desire to provide assistance and cooperation," Al Hosani said.
An SPEA statement was also circulated reminding parents to keep their children at home if they develop a cold, cough, or fever.
afkarali@khaleejtimes.com