Home is a place of comfort and support, and has as many definitions as there are places to call home. Wherever home is, successful educators and students have learned quickly how to avoid the distractions. You have no choice but to ignore the piles of laundry, dirty dishes, scattered toys, and blaring television shows. Ignore the knowledge that no one can "see" you in your work space, thereby allowing for whatever flexibility looks like to you. Make sure your definition is not too flexible. Finally, ignore those things you would rather be doing: online games, weeding, reading, texting, instant messaging, talking. You simply must stay on task.
Honesty is key. Many students will insist they are on task. After all, courses are online and that's where you are: always online. Unfortunately, it isn't that simple. For instance, how many tabs are open in your browser window and on your tool bar as you read this blog post? When you are trying to work, to study, close most of them. A minute on Facebook turns into fifteen; a quick word game turns into a rematch; and one searched article turns into two and then three. Being in a home office or workroom is a privilege, but it can be so easily abused. How many corners do you cut in a day?
I often have asked students or teachers to do their own private time and motion study, an honest accounting by ten minute blocks of how our day really looks. Do we have childcare or are we constantly trying to work while juggling babies and dirty diapers and snacks? Do we dash out for the missing gallon of milk or a "quick doctor's appointment," losing two hours of our day? How efficient would our day be if we honestly made changes? Both students and teachers need to own the decisions made concerning the privilege of working from home, and constantly check we are making the right decisions.
Help students understand how to use the responsibility of being at home wherever that may be. Sleeping until noon just isn't the best plan. School is your job and theirs and if the schedule isn't reasonable, the job isn't getting done. If you could watch a student work online for a day or could do a video of your own work habits, it would be apparent only a regular routine leads to completion and success.
Remember, for many students, wherever they live and work, as the teacher, you ARE home for them. Be the role model and inspiration they seek.
Reflection: Challenge yourself to start and end your work day on a traditional time card grid. Ignore distractions, take a set lunch break, and stop at 5 PM. How did that work for you? For your students?
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