top of page
Mar 19, 2020

Compassion and Community [Blogpost 115]



I very much appreciate the aims of the IB programmes [“The aim of all IB programmes is to develop internationally minded people who, recognizing their common humanity and shared guardianship of the planet, help to create a better and more peaceful world.” (Taken from the IB Learner Profile)]. The sense of common humanity is what has - over the last few weeks - been most apparent to me.



Rather than focussing on the statistics surrounding Covid-19 (however, if you must, the Coronavirus COVID-19 Global Cases by the Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University (JHU) site is comprehensive), I want to share some wonderful examples (there is a multitude of examples!) regarding compassion and community during these trying times. [I am aware that sharing positive stories does not stem the fear felt by those in the regions most impacted or take away the pain to those whose loved ones are in critical condition or have passed away].

I realize that some of these examples do not pertain to education in the traditional sense. However, the IB Learner Profile is seen to prepare students for life beyond the classroom and thus I offer these examples of compassion and community with this broader notion of education in mind.



Educators:

  • The generosity of educators (especially those in China and Vietnam) sharing their experiences so as to help those just entering the world of virtual learning. This is evident in Schwartz’s What Teachers in China Have Learned in the Past Month.

  • Inspiring teachers who do not simply teach curriculum, but each and every day consider the social-emotional impact (especially important when families come from all over the world and many of our students have friends and family members in countries severely impacted by the outbreak) whether in the physical classroom or engaging in virtual learning.

  • Educators who (despite finding themselves swiftly implementing and (for many) with limited time to train and/or plan for virtual learning) continue to ensure that the day to day teaching is engaging, meaningful and fun!

  • Aside from being engaged with on-line learning, many educators are also posting messages on social media such as, “While you are homeschooling/remotely/digitally educating your kids, if you need assistance with understanding something that has been assigned to your child or if you need more resources, just give me a shout. I am a teacher and would be happy to answer questions. We WILL get through this! #bettertogether <3 . I currently teach XX grade. I have also taught XX grade. (Teacher friends: copy, paste and edit)”



Leadership:

  • Ms. Solberg’s decision to hold a press conference only for children allowed her to speak directly, mirror their concerns, yet reiterate the importance - so as to benefit all - of staying home in a non-threatening manner. This is evident in the quote, “By being home, you are helping other people not be contaminated and get sick. It is important for those who already have a disease or who are very old.” from “It's OK to be scared” Norway PM holds children-only Covid-19 press conference



Cultural changes:

  • Without a doubt, we are seeing a huge change in how we - as social beings - interact. The phrase, social distancing, seems to appear everywhere. We avoid shaking hands (much harder to do than say, as evident in this video, Sorry!': Dutch PM breaks own 'no handshake' rule at coronavirus conference – video) and engage in virtual handshakes, “The Wuhan Shake”, elbow bumps, air fives (in lieu of high fives) or simply Namaste.



  • We see videos on the news and on social media showing how people are coping with being quarantined and - in the process - inspiring others, be it singing en masse from the balconies (Italy).

  • In various countries around the world, supermarkets are ensuring the first hour of the day is dedicated to elderly people (and, if necessary, their helper) so as to ensure shopping is less frenzied. If only it didn’t take a pandemic for this service to be implemented!

  • Another popular post on social media draws attention to the fact that for many seniors (Grade 12 students, not those over 65!), they will miss out on the rites of passage associated with formal/compulsory education coming to an end. “If there’s a high school senior in your life, give them a hug. To them, the cancellation of school is NOT a vacation. It’s wasted time they don’t get to spend with their friends in the last few months before they graduate. They’re anxious, realizing their time to shine may be over. The possibility they will not hear their name called on senior awards night. They’re nervous that they may not be able to walk the stage and get the diploma they have been working hard on for 12 years. Show them support and love them during these uncertain times. #classof2020. Everyone post a picture of your soon to be grad! (Copied from a friend)”



Mental health:



I sincerely hope that this sense of compassion and community long outlives Covid-19. In the meantime, stay safe, stay well!





References:

Comments

  • Twitter Clean Grey
  • LinkedIn Clean Grey
bottom of page