Read more for an update from Mr Luke Reifler on what has been happening recently in our Distance Education 'Class Connect' video conferences.
Snapshot of DE Class Connect
Distance Education is where flexible learning meets vibrant community connection, both online and in-person.
Our approach goes beyond traditional online learning, encouraging students to engage academically and socially to a level that suits them best. In addition to studio quality on-demand teaching videos for each lesson, students can participate in regular interactive video conferences, fostering friendships through Class Connect and consolidating core subject matter through Tutorial webinars.
Other occasional online events range from exciting celebrations to enriching workshops, catering to diverse interests and age groups.
Here are some staff highlights from recent Class Connect video conferences:
Primary
Mrs Emily Peisley, Miss Janet Dawson and Miss Shelley Tan
It is always a highlight to see each student's smiling face on the screen and hear their voice, rather than just reading the work they submit. For those who choose to join our Class Connect sessions, being able to actually see them, and interact, is such a delight. Being able to reconnect with those who were at Term 3 Empower Week was great, as well as meeting some new students and learning more about them through games and other activities.
Another highlight this week was getting to share about what God is doing in the area of healing in the lives of people we know. Seeing the surprise and excitement on their faces was precious. Then some of the students began sharing connections with the Bible story they had read in coursework that day. It is so wonderful that our faith in a living God makes learning about Jesus and the Bible so relevant to their everyday lives. It is so much more than a dusty old story book!
Secondary
Mrs Sarah Leffley
I had a fun and meaningful Class Connect (previously called Bible Studies tutorial) with Year 9 on Monday. We played a silly game of ‘Guess that animal sound’, where Kaitlin insisted that every animal was definitely a cow.
We then discussed the ethics of war and the students were wonderfully thoughtful. Four students even turned their microphones off and text chatted with one another. We discussed what might motivate someone to go to war and Rose and Torin really emphasised the complexities and nuances that can make it impossible to identify good guys and bad guys in war.
We discussed the incredibly tragic impacts of war on people. We then discussed whether or not Jesus is a pacifist. Lochie helpfully talked about the spiritual battle of which Jesus is the victor. Maroun helpfully pointed us towards the ‘Sermon on the Mount’, where Jesus instructs us to "turn the other cheek", as a reminder that Jesus does not desire conflict. Damon argued helpfully that Jesus, who is God, would have all the knowledge, all the power and all the skills to be a great military leader.
As we started to talk about Jesus I was reminded that, in knowing Him, I know the ultimate reconciler (someone who tries to bring peace) and the God who has won the greatest victory of all time. I can't vouch for how each of the students felt, but I was immensely encouraged and learnt a lot from the compassion and sincerity with which Year 9 conversed about such a sensitive topic.
We finished in prayer and Torin reminded us to pray for the current conflicts in the world and for people who are suffering because of them. I always love live tutorials, but this was probably my favourite one so far this year.
Invitation to DE students
Through Distance Education, we offer more than just a curriculum; we aim for a holistic educational experience, embracing both the digital world and real-world connections, ensuring our students thrive academically and socially.
We encourage you to join in with some upcoming live subject tutorials, Class Connect sessions or DE Chapel. They are great places to meet classmates and teachers from the comfort, convenience and security of your home.
Simply click ‘Class Connect’ or ‘Chapel’ from the bottom of Communication Hub for more information. Secondary students see your core subject course announcements for more information about live tutorials.