Embracing Virtual Learning
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on how we function in both of our professional and personal lives. The impact of this pandemic has challenged all of us to think outside the traditional methods of functioning as a society. The creative youth organizations from TakingITGlobal’s Creativity Grants network were up for this challenge.
Over 240 creative youth organizations in this network play an important role in their communities by delivering services, creating space, and providing employment opportunities for equitable access to the digital media industry. The curriculum developed by these organizations provide safer spaces for equity seeking young people to develop creative skills for both personal self-expression and professional career development. Additionally, they provide young people with resources to find their artistic voice to highlight social issues that are impacting them and the communities they are a part of.
The health and safety guidelines in response to the COVID 19 pandemic meant that these organizations had to close down the after school safe haven for the young people they serve. However, this challenge did not discourage the organization leads from re-imagining their programming to be delivered within a virtual community. From Instagram challenges to virtual workshops, these organizations are delivering programs that teach their young creatives new ways to create various types of media pieces using the limited technical resources available at home. The continuation of these programs provided a sense of stability and community during these unprecedented times, as creativity can be a powerful tool and source of expression and well-being.
To inspire and grow this expanding virtual community of online lessons, TakingITGlobal has created a toolkit that aims to support educators and organizations alike with the navigation and the transition from in-person to virtual program delivery. The Embracing Virtual Learning: Toolkit for Developing Engaging & Innovative Digital Media Virtual Programs resource book highlights the works and curriculum of 25 creative youth organizations, from 12 different countries, who have reimagined their programs and found innovative ways to continue to connect and inspire their young creatives during this on-going pandemic.
This toolkit is divided into five sections that guide readers through the steps, recommendations, examples of online engagement tools, and revamped programming, to successfully create and implement engaging virtual programming for young creatives. You can access a FREE digital version of this toolkit on our website!
Thank you to all of our partner organizations who shared their approaches with us and contributed to this resource. We hope you find it helpful in reflecting on programming ideas or new directions for your work!
