Gavilan classes pivot quickly to online instruction beginning mid-March
by Jan Janes on Apr 6, 2020
Gavilan College responded immediately to the challenging impact of COVID-19 by moving all instruction to an online format on March 18. The Santa Clara County Public Health Department issued a shelter in place order, and large groups such as students in classrooms were discontinued until May 3.
Departments adapted quickly, faculty are moving instruction to new online programs and student are rising to the challenge.
Cosmetology students, who receive classroom and lab instruction in hair care, manicures and pedicures, made the shift quickly.
“Students have their supplies at home, so they can still perform services as they would in class,” said Gilbert Ramirez, Cosmetology Department Supervisor. “They are learning how to use Canvas and ZOOM, remaining in constant contact and understand what is happening.”
A student’s work on a mannequin, before and after the shampoo, cut and styling.
Facilitating the transition is the constant communication that teachers and students are maintaining with one another.
“ZOOM meetings have been great,” said instructor Nicolette Boyd, who teaches the intermediate classes. “Short, to the point lectures with questions and answers.” The online lectures are 45-60 minutes long.
“Assignments are posted Sunday and not due until Wednesday,” said Boyd. “This has allowed students who are caring for family members, or are working, more time to complete the modules and participate in discussions.” The peer discussions allow the students to offer different points of view.
“The students have been able to ‘work’ on family members for mani/pedi credits,” she said. Students submit photos and videos of their work to instructors, gaining the credits online to keep training for their State Board examinations.
Departments adapted quickly, faculty are moving instruction to new online programs and student are rising to the challenge.
Cosmetology students, who receive classroom and lab instruction in hair care, manicures and pedicures, made the shift quickly.
“Students have their supplies at home, so they can still perform services as they would in class,” said Gilbert Ramirez, Cosmetology Department Supervisor. “They are learning how to use Canvas and ZOOM, remaining in constant contact and understand what is happening.”
A student’s work on a mannequin, before and after the shampoo, cut and styling.
Facilitating the transition is the constant communication that teachers and students are maintaining with one another.
“ZOOM meetings have been great,” said instructor Nicolette Boyd, who teaches the intermediate classes. “Short, to the point lectures with questions and answers.” The online lectures are 45-60 minutes long.
“Assignments are posted Sunday and not due until Wednesday,” said Boyd. “This has allowed students who are caring for family members, or are working, more time to complete the modules and participate in discussions.” The peer discussions allow the students to offer different points of view.
“The students have been able to ‘work’ on family members for mani/pedi credits,” she said. Students submit photos and videos of their work to instructors, gaining the credits online to keep training for their State Board examinations.