2020 has been a year filled with many many events, mostly negative, but I digress. The year started off crazy throughout the world and by March, everything changed completely. We thought that we were going to get a few more weeks of spring break but ended up getting so much more. Now, we’re almost in September and unfortunately, not much has improved for the country or the world.
The 2020-2021 school year has begun and there are already many changes. Between a set schedule, Microsoft Teams, and a bunch of new guidelines, there is a lot that is new. With this year, everything is new and all there is are changes. Besides the basics of actual school, I think there will be many differences in teachers and students. For me at least, I think my mental state will be changed greatly.
When I say that I don’t mean it in a bad way either. There are definitely pros and cons to virtual schools. I enjoy the aspects of comfort, independence, and freedom that comes with online but I dislike the new format of sitting in online meetings for long periods of time. I find it much less stressful being to and by myself where I can learn independently and not have to deal with the stress and anxiety of others in a school and classroom setting. In a sense, I do miss getting out of the house but if places weren’t closed and I could safely go out to places, then I would and be completely satisfied. I don’t exactly see too much of a difference between the work load so I do not mind that and I’m happy being away from many people. I think that I will feel much happier and comfortable with online classes.
When it comes to the obvious, actual school will be very different as well. Now there are a lot more guidelines and engagement between teachers and students. Compared to distance learning last year, things are more uniform. Classes start at a specific time and everything is set on a schedule, we have to “show up to class” on a video call through Microsoft Teams and engage with teachers for grades and attendance.
I hope for this year that things do go smooth and aren’t too stressful with technology issues.
Photo by Thomas Park on Unsplash
Emily Ramirez 