Community First: How did Dubai's schools find a way forward during the pandemic?

The lessons learned so far by Dubai’s teachers and school leaders during the pandemic have been detailed in a new report released by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). Designed to be used as a reference, the report sets out what worked well for teachers, parents and students during the period of distance learning, what could have worked better, and makes recommendations for further innovations.

Fatma Belrehif, CEO of Dubai Schools Inspection Bureau at KHDA said, “The education community learned a great deal in its response to the challenges presented by the pandemic, especially in areas of student and staff wellbeing; the provision of distance and blended learning; and the key role of educators working from home and school. This report applies these lessons to how we could experience teaching and learning in the future.”

According to new data released in the report, 61% of parents said they were much more involved with their child’s education during the pandemic. Nine out of 10 parents (90%) were also very satisfied with the handling of the pandemic by schools, KHDA and government entities.

The report also shed light on key initiatives rolled out to support parents, teachers and students during the distance learning period including #InThisTogetherDubai, WhatWorksX and positive parenting workshops.

To read the full report, visit www.khda.gov.ae/en/publications

Key community initiatives for schools during distance learning
InThisTogetherDubai – A virtual goodie bag for students, teachers and parents filled with resources that can help add spark to both teaching and learning. This site features apps, websites, service and other resources that organisations from the UAE and the world are providing.

WhatWorksX – Online sessions led by teachers and principals to share what’s working at their school during the distance learning period.

Positive Parenting Workshops: Free workshops for parents to learn from experts on positive parenting practices.

What worked well for schools?

• Communication with parents
• Strategies to support staff
• Wellbeing initiatives and programmes
• Support provided for students of determination
• Introduction of digital learning platforms and tools
• Implementation of different modes of learning

Timeline of Dubai schools’ journey through pandemic