UAE rains: How schools make a switch to remote classes at a short notice

Dubai: With heavy rains becoming a not-so-uncommon feature in the UAE in recent times, the ability to switch to remote operations at a short notice has become essential for the seamless functioning of schools.

Late Monday, as weathermen predicted heavy rains in the UAE until Wednesday, schools across the emirates were advised to go in for distance learning to ensure the safety of teachers and students. Across the board, it turns out, these entities had mechanisms in place to make the switch with relative ease.

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According to the school managements, this has been possible because the hybrid model of working has become not only more relevant, but also more acceptable in the post COVID-19 era.

As Dinesh Kothari, who is Chairman of the British curriculum Victory Heights Primary School and South View School in Dubai and Managing Director of DPS Dubai, DPS Sharjah and DPS Ras Al Khaimah, explained, “During COVID-19, everyone adopted distance learning. This culture remained an integral part of the learning environment even after schools returned to in-person classes. IT and digital inputs became part and parcel of the teaching and learning process, whether it was for the purpose of communicating messages or for the lessons themselves. As such, instant connectivity is no longer a challenge - and neither is a sudden switch to remote classes.”

Dedicated Google classroom

Deepika Thapar Singh, CEO and Principal at Credence High School, said, “The staff and students of Credence High School excel in distance learning. Our systems are comprehensive and reliable; each class has a dedicated Google Classroom that is used year-round to distribute essential study materials, conduct assessments and assign homework. This platform, coupled with Zoom, facilitates seamless distance learning experiences. Our communication infrastructure is equally robust, featuring WhatsApp groups for each section, a dedicated school portal, and leaders at all levels who are readily available to support parents, students, and staff. Our IT department is proactive and provides prompt assistance to ensure smooth operation of classes.

“In response to the unique demands of online learning, we always make minimal but significant adjustments to our daily schedule. We introduce a five -minute break between classes to provide students and staff with essential rest periods. These short breaks help everyone relax their eyes and mentally regroup, enhancing focus and preventing digital fatigue. Our teachers also incorporate mindfulness exercises into their classes. This practice not only helps in maintaining mental wellness but also supports a more engaged and responsive learning environment.”

Effective protocols

Zafar Raja, Group Chief Operating Officer, GEMS Education, said, “Our transition to remote learning over the past 24 hours reflects effective protocols across all our 44 schools in the UAE and Qatar that we’ve honed over several years now, since the pandemic period.

“Our teaching staff, many of whom were with us during the COVID-19 years when virtual learning became the norm, are also now very well drilled in overseeing a smooth switch to remote teaching during times of adverse weather as we are now experiencing.

“We are grateful for the professionalism of them all and are thankful too for the support of all our families. We will continue to keep them updated with all developments and meantime, hope they remain safe – and dry.”

He said, "Given the severity of the weather conditions across the UAE today and in the interests of the safety and wellbeing of our students and staff, we have made the decision to extend remote learning across the GEMS Education network. All our schools will therefore remain closed on Wednesday, April 17, with students continuing to learn from home. Our families have been informed and will be kept updated through our usual channels."

Power of resilience, adaptability

Ghadeer Abu-Shamat, Superintendent and CEO, GEMS Al Khaleej International School, and Senior Vice President – Education, GEMS Education, said, “Distance learning has taught us the power of resilience and adaptability. During bad weather, we’ve demonstrated our ability to switch seamlessly to virtual classrooms in collaboration with our parent community.

According to Daniella Aschettino, Secondary Headteacher at GEMS Metropole School – Motor City, “Switching to online learning due to bad weather in the UAE has been quite the journey this year. While it’s posed challenges, it’s also been a valuable learning experience for both teachers and students.

"Despite the disruptions, we’ve found ways to keep students engaged and ensure their learning continues seamlessly through digital platforms. This experience has emphasised the need for flexibility and innovation in education, showing us new ways to adapt and thrive in unexpected circumstances such as the pandemic.”

Muhammad Ali Kottakkulam, Principal, Gulf Indian High School, Dubai, said, "The safety of our school community is always our priority and we make decisions regarding onsite or remote learning, as per the guidance by KHDA and the Ministry of Education.

‘How agile we’ve become’

From a student’s point of view, Wid Alawar, a Year 11 student at GEMS Al Barsha National School, said, “Despite the challenges of distance learning during bad weather, I’m amazed at how agile we’ve become. It’s been reassuring to know that we can continue our education from the safety and comfort of our homes.