Discovery Engages and Enriches Virtual Classrooms During Presidential Inauguration
It would be fair to say that after almost a year into the pandemic, flexibility is king. Students around the country are making the most of virtual and hybrid education, a solution made possible by the quick and dedicated commitment of educators, community groups, and internet providers. But connecting students is only one piece of the puzzle, as many still face the same challenges they would in the classroom, making instructors’ jobs even more critical.
That’s why Discovery Inc. and Discovery Education together have launched I Do Solemnly Swear: The U.S. Presidential Inauguration, a virtual field trip that brings elementary and middle school teachers and students behind the scenes to hear from experts and historians about the long tradition of the Inauguration. Interviewing the experts are kids from Operation Homefront, a nonprofit that, since 2002, has worked to support military families. Questions will run the gambit from ‘why do we have an inauguration?’ to the meaning behind the many symbols of the presidency.
The special, which is now available, is produced in a way which empowers teachers to either screen the entire special in one sitting, or to use segments alongside course material. Discovery is also providing supplemental teaching resources for instructors and parents, allowing them to fit the lesson into whatever learning setup they currently have.
“Discovery Education is dedicated to helping educators prepare students for tomorrow by connecting them to today’s world,” said Scott Kinney, CEO of Discovery Education. “Exciting virtual field trips like I Do Solemnly Swear provide teachers, students, and families insight and perspective into the people, places, and events shaping our world, and we are excited to partner with Discovery Familia and Discovery Family to bring this unique event to students everywhere.”
As the world continues to face the COVID-19 pandemic, TV networks like Discovery are doing their part to make the experience a little easier. For more information about how previously not-connected students are getting online during the pandemic, check out the handy response guide on the Beyond website.
