The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant shift in the way we approach education. With schools closing down and the rise of remote learning, parents and educators alike have been searching for alternative ways to provide a quality education to their children. One such alternative that has gained popularity is microschooling. Microschools are small, independent schools that operate outside of traditional education systems and offer a personalized and flexible approach to learning. One of the most popular models of microschooling is the learning pod.

In this blog post, we will explore the role of learning pods in microschooling. We will discuss what learning pods are, their benefits, and how they can be used to create a successful microschooling experience. 

What Are Learning Pods?

A learning pod, also known as a pandemic pod, is a small group of students who learn together outside of a traditional classroom setting. Learning pods are typically made up of 3 to 10 students who are of a similar age and grade level. The students are usually supervised by a teacher or tutor who provides instruction and facilitates the learning process.

Learning pods can be organized by parents, educators, or a combination of both. They can be used to supplement remote learning or as an alternative to traditional schooling. In the context of microschooling, learning pods are an effective way to provide a personalized and flexible education to a small group of students.

Benefits of Learning Pods

1. Personalized Learning Experience: Learning pods offer a personalized learning experience that is tailored to the needs and interests of the students. Teachers can adjust the pace and content of instruction based on the individual needs of each student.
2. Socialization: Learning pods provide an opportunity for students to socialize and interact with their peers in a safe and controlled environment. This is particularly important for children who are learning remotely and may be feeling isolated.
3. Flexibility: Learning pods offer flexibility in terms of scheduling and curriculum. Teachers can create a schedule that works for the students and can choose a curriculum that aligns with their interests and needs.
4. Cost-Effective: Learning pods can be a cost-effective alternative to private schools. By pooling resources, parents can hire a teacher or tutor to provide instruction at a lower cost than they would pay for private schooling.

How to Create a Successful Learning Pod

1. Choose the Right Group: When creating a learning pod, it is important to choose the right group of students. Look for students who are of a similar age and grade level and who have similar interests and learning styles.
2. Find a Qualified Teacher or Tutor: The success of a learning pod depends on the quality of the instruction. It is important to find a qualified teacher or tutor who has experience working with students of a similar age and grade level.
3. Create a Schedule: Set a schedule for the learning pod that works for all of the students and the teacher. This should include both instructional time and time for breaks and socialization.
4. Choose a Curriculum: Choose a curriculum that aligns with the interests and needs of the students. Consider using a mix of online resources and textbooks to create a well-rounded curriculum.

About Omella

Omella is an intuitive Microschool platform that simplifies payment and form processes, allowing microschool owners to save on credit card fees and hundreds of hours per month. Whether it's a $10,000 tuition payment or forms and waivers, Omella makes it easy to accept payments and collect information with over 100 ready-to-use templates for microschools. These templates include forms for waivers, pickup authorization, allergy notification, Chromebook checkout agreement, and more.

One of Omella's greatest advantages is its user-friendly interface, designed to be accessible for both school owners and parents/students. With just a few minutes of setup time, you can start using the platform right away, without needing any technical expertise or training.