# Technology and Learning

A 2020 Lockdown Blessing

A little positive post about our access to tools for learning, and how to turn lockdown into an opportunity for growth.

It’s really easy to get caught up in the misery of a restricted life. 2020 hasn’t been easy on us. We’re all so used to freedoms that previous generations only dreamed of; jet-setting to faraway places, often on a whim, or taking a trip to visit dearly loved relatives and share that hug that warms our soul.

So yes, it’s not a great feeling to have that taken away, for an indefinite period of time with no end in sight.

But we also have to be grateful that in the world we live in, as long as we have an internet connection we’re never truly alone. The technology that has become a part of our everyday lives has become an absolute saviour this year, not only for many jobs that allow remote working, but for our own mental health too.

You can access support services, doctors appointments, family get-togethers, quiz nights, exercise classes… all through the safety of your screen.

A lifeline for me - somebody who always has to be doing something and has about 50 projects on the go at any one time - has been a) continuing to study languages with a tutor online and b) continuing practicing martial arts during online sessions.

Language learning

I personally use a combination of:

• Duolingo - a free language learning app available on web, iOS and Android for revision and quick daily practice and
• italki - an online platform that introduces language learners to native tutors who can provide 1–2-1 sessions for very reasonable

There are tons of versions of these available, but these have been such a superb tool to allow for me to continue my language learning despite restrictions on travel right now.

I found an excellent Mandarin tutor who I’m very happy with and am looking for a Spanish tutor so any recommendations let me know!

Martial arts training

Another issue with lockdown is the controversial closure of gyms and exercise classes that so many rely on. Not just for physical health but mental stability too. I was lucky enough to be a part of a martial arts club who adapted brilliantly to the challenge of zoom karate and kickboxing. Is it the same? No, but it’s a pretty amazing second-best that means I don’t have to say goodbye to my daily routine.

Thoughts

So obviously it’s not a perfect situation. I write this as the news of a “breakthrough” vaccine has emerged, but whether or not this is the answer we’ve all been waiting for is still out for debate.

What I’m trying to say though, is that for all its faults, the tech we have today is such a blessing. This time doesn’t have to be wasted - it can be anything you make it.

And if it means sitting on the sofa eating Nutella from the jar then so be it. Because sometimes you just got to do what you got to do.