Should Teachers Be Able to Count Zoom Students Truant for Not Doing Classwork?

With the shift to online education brought about by the global pandemic, several crucial aspects of classroom management and student engagement have had to be redefined. One of the more complex issues is the concept of truancy in virtual settings. Should teachers be able to count students as truant for not doing classwork during online sessions? This article delves into the nuances of this question and the differences between online and traditional in-person education.

Understanding Truancy in Online Education

The term truancy pertains to the act of staying away from school without leave or explanation. Online education introduces unique challenges in verifying a student's presence during a virtual session. If a student's camera is turned off, it can be difficult for the teacher to determine if the student is genuinely engaged or merely logged in and absent. Several online schools base attendance strictly on whether or not a student submits an assignment, virtual classroom, or completes classwork. This practice reflects a shift in expectations as schools and districts adapt to the realities of remote teaching.

Comparing Online and In-Person Education

It's crucial to acknowledge that online classes and in-person ground classes are fundamentally different. The rules and expectations for attendance and participation are often distinct. In a live online session, it's challenging to tell whether a student is genuinely present or just logged in and absent. Conversely, in a traditional in-person setting, a teacher has immediate visual and auditory cues to determine if a student is engaged or absent. This contrast illustrates why the same expectations might not apply seamlessly in both environments.

The Definition of Truancy

Truancy is defined as a student staying away from school without leave or explanation. Whether a student is unengaged in classwork during a virtual session does not necessarily equate to truancy. Doing classwork is a separate issue from truancy. A student can be truant if they are not attending the zoom class. However, a student attending a virtual session but not completing classwork is not considered truant, as they are present but not fulfilling their academic obligations.

The Euphemism of "Remote Learning"

The term "remote learning" is a euphemism that masks the significant challenges involved in maintaining effective instruction during this period. Teachers face myriad difficulties, and the virtual classroom requires a different set of management tools. Factors such as inconsistent internet connectivity, students being distracted by electronic devices, and the physical absence in a remote learning context exacerbate these challenges.

Teacher's Perspective on Remote Learning

Teachers are acutely aware of the complexities inherent in remote learning. They often express frustration and concern over the commitment of students to the educational process. A message from a teacher, titled "Greetings," highlights the difficulties faced by educators. The teacher appeals to students to prioritize the educational process and complete their assignments to the best of their ability. This perspective underscores the need for mutual understanding and cooperation between teachers and students in the context of remote learning.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the ability to count students as truant for not doing classwork during a live online session should be understood in the context of the unique challenges of remote education. While attendance and participation are critical, the inability to distinguish between genuine absence and inattention during a virtual session requires a nuanced approach. Teachers and students alike must navigate these challenges with mutual respect and understanding to foster a productive and inclusive learning environment.