Yong Zhao on Avoiding the ‘Learning Loss Trap’ – Ep. 23
Dr. Yong Zhao explains why schools should avoid reacting to COVID-19 with a narrow focus on learning loss and should instead support the whole child.

In this extended episode of Building the Bridge, Dr. Yong Zhao discusses lost learning and efforts to provide whole child education.
In this extended episode of Building the Bridge hosted by Dr. Wendy Oliver, hear an interview with world-renowned education scholar Dr. Yong Zhao.
Building the BridgeEp. 23 – Global Leader Yong Zhao on Avoiding the “Learning Loss Trap”Play episode: Ep. 23 – Global Leader Yong Zhao on Avoiding the “Learning Loss Trap” (23 minutes 48 seconds)Follow on SpotifyAppleIn this conversation, Dr. Zhao expands on some of the key points from his recent article “Build Back Better: Avoid the Learning Loss Trap.” In the article, he speaks to the risk of some wrong decisions schools might make as a reaction to Covid-19 challenges, and then shares a list of proven, research-based, global strategies to pursue instead.
Dr. Zhao will enlighten listeners with his thoughts on what has actually been lost during the pandemic (versus what was just never gained, and what we can do next), and why he advocates for children to develop a jagged profile of qualities vs. focusing on narrow subject matter such as reading and math. As a proponent of a whole child education, Dr. Zhao promotes social-emotional learning, mental health, and a variety of academic subjects as equally important components of education.
Additionally, Dr. Zhao describes how he views children as global citizens; what they need to know about their responsibilities, their goals, and their outcomes; and why online learning is here to stay as an effective piece of education access. This is an interview you don’t want to miss!
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About the host
Dr. Wendy Oliver is a highly qualified Tennessee teacher and administrator who has pioneered digital learning across multiple states and school districts. She has authored digital teaching standards and developed software that allows teachers to self-assess their knowledge of digital instruction. No matter which hat she’s wearing, her goal is simple — to empower learners. Dr. Oliver is currently the Chief Learning Officer for EdisonLearning.
Learn more about EdisonLearning by visiting https://edisonlearning.com/
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