The UAE Ministry of Education (MoE) has announced it will conduct a pilot launch of its distance education platform today, 18th March, to ensure that all students can utilise smart education technologies to carry out their studies.
The system will be available for access from 16:30 to 17:30 as part of the ministry’s efforts to carry out the first, second and third phases of the platform launch.
The Ministry explained that this step aims to train students on how to use the platform, adding that school administrations need to draft working plans to adopt interactive learning programmes for teachers and students across all academic levels.
It noted that working plans need to include instructions for teachers to encourage their students to utilise the system, and provide motivation for the students and their caretakers to ensure an effective educational experience for students.
This week, the Ministry will organise week-long remote specialist training sessions for some 25,000 teachers and administrative personnel.
The UAE’s smart-learning programme, is part of the MoE’s plans to continue the learning process during times of natural crises and disasters.
Distance learning will begin Sunday, 22nd March, with pupils expected to return to classrooms on 5th April.
Earlier this month, UAE schools and universities have closed as part of precautionary efforts amid the coronavirus crisis. The two-week spring break, which was initially set to begin on March 29, started two weeks early. Following the school break, distance learning will be introduced during the remaining two weeks.
Several organisations in the UAE have launched programmes to support distant learning, among which is telecom operator du. The company has pledged to enable all postpaid and prepaid customers to access their school websites and homework throughout the entire duration of the closed period without occurring any additional charges on their data.
It has also said that it will double the internet speed at no additional cost for schools and universities across the country.
