The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) compiled a list of free and open digital tools to support remote learning during temporary school closure in connection with the novel coronavirus pandemic, IPN reports.
UNICEF says that with schools temporarily closed, digital distance learning, where technology is available, can help children continue learning at home. Education experts have provided a list of free and open digital platforms, apps and content that can be useful.
The list is not intended to replace learning material provided by schools and educators. It’s a list of non-formal extra-curricular resources. Most are free and some require parents to pay if they want to use additional content or features.
The inclusion in this list does not constitute UNICEF’s endorsement; however, these are recognized and widely used digital tools. The list will be updated regularly.
UNICEF notes that when it comes to children learning online, parents and caregivers should remember to always engage actively in children’s learning, to use technology as one ingredient of a learning experience that includes human interaction, recognizing that technology alone cannot replace teachers or parental presence and guidance.
They should also protect children’s data. Parents and caregivers should check the digital resources children are accessing and avoid those that do not seem safe or that require detailed personal information.