As winter storms arrive and roads turn slick, Edmond Public Schools (EPS) makes the call: two days of remote learning.
With no teacher supervision and the comfort of being home, do students actually complete their work—or do they take the unexpected break to relax?
In a social media poll among 50 students, 60% said they completed their virtual work, while 40% admitted to skipping it. With icy overcast weather, it can be hard to find the motivation to do work at home; however, it’s important to complete assignments so as to not fall behind.
“I always do my virtual work,” junior Naudia Oliber said. “I don’t like being behind in classes and I know it’ll actually count towards my grade.”
While some students stay diligent in their time away, other students take advantage of the fact that virtual work isn’t due until students return to school.
“I usually don’t [do my virtual work],” senior Alizeh Qazi said. “Honestly, most of the time my teachers don’t really assign anything, but if they do, they don’t really expect us to do it. It always gets done before the due date, that’s for sure.”
Despite a possible lack of motivation, remote learning days allow students to work at their own pace; some may work faster than they would on a typical day, while others take their time and work slower.
“In my head, it’s an easy opportunity to catch up on everything, but I’d be lying if I said I finished it all,” junior Chloe Lamprecht said.
Not only do students get the chance to catch up on assigned work, but they also have the opportunity to participate in hobbies they typically don’t have time set aside for. Overall, students seem to enjoy virtual days, since it gives them an unexpected break.
“I love remote days,” Qazi said. “Staying home on a chilly day is already perfect for me, so not going to school and getting an extra day to sleep in is just wonderful, especially as a senior.”
Ultimately, remote learning days provide a mix of productivity and relaxation; some students take full advantage to stay ahead, while others enjoy the rare chance to unwind. Whether they’re a welcomed break or an academic hurdle depends on how each student chooses to spend them.
