The Virtual Classrooms initiated by Global Indian International Schools during Covid-19 situation, have received a tremendous respnse from the parent community in Singapore and around the world. 

The classrooms were in response to the lockdowns in different countries, which led to school closures. However, GIIS campuses made sure that student education does not suffer as a result, and as part of their continuity plan, quickly put in place online schooling with trained teachers to ensure that students continue to learn and study as usual. 

Here is feedback by Singapore parent Rachna Jha, who spoke to us on her and her child's experience on Virtual Classroom. 

• How was the Virtual Classroom experience? 

Initially, before the classes began, we were very skeptical and unsure about how much can be achieved by virtual classes. I hoped that school would declare holidays and resume only when lockdown ends. Contrary to my belief, it is being conducted very well and learning objectives are certainly being achieved. As parents of Anica, are exteremely satisfied by the way in which the class teachers are conducting classes. They are as interactive and good as physical classrooms conducted in schools. 

• How did the teacher ensure continuity of lessons?

The teachers have made sure that lessons were conducted properly, and if any part of lesson was left incomplete on any given day, it was picked up on the next day with a quick recap. 

• What was the highlight of the learning experience for your child in the virtual classroom?

My daughter Anica is a very soft-spoken person, especially when outside home, so her interactions with teachers may be very little as she can hardly raise her voice or get herself noticed. Still her class teacher manages to encourage and bring  the children out from their shells. She is fair to all and makes sure that each child speaks without fear of being wrong.

In fact, many a times children do get disappointed if they don't get a chance to speak in a particular period, but the teacher ensures that each one gets a chance to participate. This shows how engaging the classes are, despite them being online. Also, language teachers make children take turns at reading phrases and sentences which is also a good strategy.

Overall, this will go a long way in making students confident learners, which is way more important then just rote learning.

• Do you think post Covid-19, schools can consider continuing education remotely?

Absolutely, we were not a believer of Virtual Classrooms, but GIIS teachers have made them work. Full marks to teachers on doing such an amazing job.

• How did your child take to online education?

Though Anica misses all the wonderful times she could have with friends and her ECA, CCA lessons, and keeps wishing school reopens as soon as possible, these online classes are a big relief. They made sure that children are not at loss academically and also still bond with their teachers and classmates. 

We are glad Mrs Jha has found our schools useful, and thank her for encouraging our teachers and efforts.