This evidence review report was commissioned on behalf of all education ministers to synthesise what is known about effective remote learning. It takes stock of lessons learned through the COVID-19 period, as well as those gained from earlier, pre-pandemic experiences. The review was administered by the Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO) and conducted by the Centre for International Research on Education Systems (CIRES) at Victoria University.
The review found that there were a range of strategies in use during the COVID-19 pandemic. The effectiveness of these in supporting student outcomes in remote learning is unclear, with some research suggesting that student outcomes have declined.
Of particular importance, the review found the current evidence base on remote and online teaching practices is too immature for detailed guidance for teachers to be confidently developed, or for systems to put in place broader supports (for example, for parents and carers). Further research will enable systems to more confidently plan in the event of future crises and support improved remote and online delivery in conventional use.
Keywords: online learning, coronavirus