The government of Ontario has partnered with Apple and telecom company Rogers to help support at-home education in the Canadian province during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Apple has previously taken steps to support educators and students during the coronavirus crisis, including launching a video series to help teachers and schools and creating iPad-based, at-home learning programs for kids.
In April, school boards in Ontario have been distributing iPads to students who don't have the technology or internet needed for its Learn at Home program. As of April 17, Ontario said they've shipped more than 21,000 iPads equipped with free Rogers LTE data to families in need.
In addition to the aforementioned video series and iPad programs, Apple is contributing videos, apps and books to "help teachers build engaging lessons for students at home." It's also providing ongoing support in both French and English to students, parents and educators, and one-on-one virtual coaching sessions with Apple Professional Learning Specialists.
"With this collaboration and commitment to on-going support for remote learning, our school boards, Apple and Rogers clearly demonstrate the Ontario spirit and the incredible ability to overcome any obstacle for our kids," said Stephen Lecce, Ontario's Minister of Education.
3 Comments
Sorry but IMO if it’s Rogers they will find some way to screw the end users. I was with them for four years and will NEVER do business with them again.
Yes, Rogers (no relation!!!) has a reputation for unreliable service. And our current government has a reputation for breaking social support structures, and especially vilifying teachers and unions. Pandemics however make strange bedfellows. So, on the surface this looks amazing. In terms of Crisis Capitalism, a philosophy to which these people, subscribe, it is a great opportunity its to privatize the system. Surprisingly, this provincial government has been a calm and moderate leader in this crisis, recognizing that crude privatization and polarizing politics just will not work. Still. ...
All kids should be homeschooled from now on.