On 5 June 2024, Rachel Whalley, MEd, and Dr Lucie Lindsay (FLANZ Executive Committee) shared the history of virtual schooling in Aotearoa New Zealand, through the lens of the Kōtui Ako Virtual Learning Network story. Rachel is ePrincipal with Kōtui Ako VLN (formerly the VLN Primary and OLC) and Lucie is Kōtui Ako VLN Deputy ePrincipal (Primary).
They provided an overview of the origins of Kōtui Ako VLN and highlighted the various learning experiences that are available to students and how they can thrive in their online learning environments through support from their teachers and each other. Lucie and Rachel also explored challenges and barriers that they’ve experienced over the years and outlined possibilities for future engagement and improving student learning opportunities in their open, flexible, and distance learning approach.
You can watch the recording of this webinar and access Lucie and Rachel’s slides as well as the full transcript.
Kōtui Ako Virtual Learning Network Aotearoa (Kōtui Ako VLN) is a nationwide network that brings together schools to provide online programs for New Zealand learners.
The VLN community traces its roots back to early pioneers like Casatech and the Correspondence School. Over the years, regional clusters emerged, fueled by Rural Broadband and ICTPD funding. Today, Kōtui Ako VLN stands as a national initiative, celebrating more than 25 years in Aotearoa.
The VLN model comprises three essential components:
- Planned and prepared: Subject specialist teachers collaborate, plan and prepare content.
- Taught using online tools: Learners engage through platforms like Zoom, Hangouts, and shared online spaces.
- Assigned independent learning: Learners explore independently, with ongoing feedback and feedforward.
While the benefits are clear, schools face challenges:
- Adaptation: Schools must adapt to flexible online learning.
- Access and support: Reliable fast wifi, devices, timetables, and support are critical.
- Sustainable funding: Funding and policy recognition remain ongoing challenges.
The VLN pedagogy, however, emphasises:
- Emergent design: Flexibility and adaptability are key.
- Social presence: Building safe communities for learners to engage and collaborate.
- Synchronous sessions: Face-to-face experiences strengthen connections.
- Assessment for learning: Ongoing feedback and progress tracking.
Teachers play a crucial role in this regard:
- TPACK framework: Integrating subject knowledge, teaching strategies, and digital tools.
- Ongoing learning: Through NEX Kōtuitui online teachers network – Collaboration, subject groups, and upskilling.
- Mātauranga Māori support: Kaiariahi Mātauranga Māori role ensures support for Māori kaiako and ākonga and quality reo Māori programs.
VLN schools are also resilient:
- Emergency preparedness: Covid-19 lockdowns showcased VLN schools’ readiness.
- Teacher shortages: VLN supports schools facing staff shortages.
Kōtui Ako VLN continues to evolve, empowering learners across New Zealand. Watch the webinar recording for more details.