To support equitable access to online learning for participants and staff, training providers should identify and prioritize components of their programs that can be transitioned to virtual settings. This could include the recruitment and intake processes, the delivery of in-class coursework, and the administration of assessments. A variety of systems can be used to facilitate online learning including social media platforms, nudging tools, videoconferencing systems, video assessments, and digital case management platforms.
Training providers should also take advantage of their current partnerships and forge relationships with new partners to increase their remote learning capabilities. Here are some benefits that programs might be able to offer students with the help of partners:
- Connections to Wi-Fi hotspots provided by the community
- Laptop loaner programs and computer lab access at local libraries
- Equipment donations from IT companies
- Digital literacy training for students
- Professional development training for program staff
Partnerships may be especially helpful when it comes to finding ways to offer hands-on learning experiences like on-the-job training, internships, labs, and health care clinical programs in virtual settings. For example, partners may be able to provide access to systems like interactive technologies and video assessment tools. However, if it is truly impossible to move certain activities online, training providers should make every effort to ensure that their facilities allow for safe, socially-distanced in-person learning—if local authorities allow in-person instruction at all.