Revealed: How Dubai schools have taken to online learning

More than two-thirds of private schools in Dubai have been offering a ‘developed’ level of distance learning.

That's according to the findings of the Distance Learning Evaluation (DLE) report compiled by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).

It categorises schools’ proficiency as ‘Developed’, ‘Partially Developed’, or ‘Not Developed.’

Sixty-seven per cent of Dubai’s private schools were found to offer ‘Developed’ level of provision; 32% ‘Partially Developed’ and 1% - one school’s provision - was ‘Not Developed.’

The evaluations were based on three main areas: how well students were learning and how well their wellbeing was safeguarded; how well teachers were teaching and monitoring students’ learning; and how well school leaders were managing students’ learning across the school.

Each school’s five-hour evaluation was carried out through discussions with school leaders, review of students’ work, observation of online lessons, and feedback from parents, students and teachers.

Dr. Abdulla Al Karam, Director-General of the KHDA said: "Because schools will provide options of face-to-face and distance learning next academic year, the DLE will help parents to get a complete picture of the quality of education their children are receiving, and will help schools to provide even better quality learning, no matter where it takes place.”

Every school rated ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Very Good’ by the Dubai Schools Inspection Bureau in the 2018/19 academic year was found to offer ‘Developed’ distance learning. 80% of schools rated ‘Good’ and 26% of schools rated ‘Acceptable’ also offered ‘Developed’ distance learning provision.

Parents can access each school’s distance learning evaluation and inspection reports through the KHDA online directory. 

The Distance Learning Evaluation is a collaborative initiative between the UAE Ministry of Education, the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge, the Sharjah Private Education Authority and the KHDA.