Definition of Terms

Given the complexity of the times and the multiple guidances we are getting information from, many terms around schooling are being used interchangeably. In an effort to provide clarity, here we define common terms:

In-Person Learning: Any learning that is conducted by an educator interacting face-to-face with a student on school grounds (either indoor or outdoor). This can include a combination of full group learning, small group/individualized learning and counseling, and independent work supervised by an educator.

Remote Learning: Any learning that is conducted by a combination of online instruction and independent work. It does not include any in-person face-to-face interaction.

  • Synchronous Learning: Any remote learning that involves live, real-time instruction between an educator and a student. This could include a combination of full group learning, small group/individualized learning and counseling, and independent work supervised by an educator. 
  • Asynchronous Learning: Any remote learning that involves a student engaging in independent work assigned by an educator. It can involve online work such as a student watching instructional videos to support their learning, small groups of students working independently on an assignment or project, or activities assigned and completed independently not using a computer. This part of remote learning does not include live, real-time instruction between an educator and a student.

Hybrid Learning: A combination of in-person learning and remote learning. The in-person component is dependent on environmental conditions. In the SPS model, it involves a cohort rotation model (Cohorts A and B) where some students receive in-person instruction (indoor or outdoor) on given days, while others learn through remote learning. This rotation model allows for students to have some in-person interaction with their teachers and peers, while also allowing for the space to maintain appropriate 6-foot social distancing.

Environmental Conditions: Regional and local community spread conditions may result in the need to shift between full remote and hybrid learning models - and back and forth as needed. The Environmental Health and Safety Committee has recommended initial indicators that help determine risk levels as well as context. The city and district plans to initially monitor the following data, contingent on the State providing data in a regular and timely fashion:

  • New cases per day per 100,000 people using 14-day average of data for the City of Somerville 
  • Percentage of confirmed positives per day using 14-day average of data for the City of Somerville
  • New cases per day per 100,000 people using a 14-day average of data for Suffolk and Middlesex counties
  • Availability of and processing time for COVID-19 testing