A Principled Approach to Learning

In all Pickering College programs, whether blended or online, we are committed to the following five principles of online learning:

PRINCIPLE 1: We will establish and maintain regular effective contact with students and families.

PRINCIPLE 2: We will create opportunities for student-centered learning and collaboration.

PRINCIPLE 3: We will create opportunities that have practical real-world applications for students.

PRINCIPLE 4: We will provide continuous support for each student’s learning process and autonomy to help them reach their full potential.

PRINCIPLE 5: We will ensure all course content is readily and easily accessible to all students.

Our learning program is designed to be flexible and to respond to changing contexts. Should our ability to host in-person classes be disrupted, Pickering College is fully committed to delivering an online program that reflects best practices in teaching and learning.

SYNCHRONOUS LEARNING is live and occurs in real-time during scheduled blocks/periods:

• The use of technology for synchronous classes accommodates students in different locations and time zones

• The lessons are recorded for students for future reference to support their asynchronous work

• Students have access to teachers to ask questions and receive immediate feedback on their work

• Students can socialize and collaborate with their peers in class online discussions, and live-broadcast lectures

ASYNCHRONOUS LEARNING is completed independently or collaboratively with peers:

• Students have choice and flexibility to complete work at a time and place of their choosing which develops their organizational and time management skills

• Students are provided with opportunities to research, develop discipline-specific and interdisciplinary learning skills, and reflect on their learning

• Students can ask questions and receive feedback from their teachers and peers through different forums such as email or messaging