Technical problems disrupt first day of remote learning for pupils

The first day of remote learning under the latest lockdown rules was disrupted for pupils today by a nationwide problem with Microsoft Teams.
Live lessons are now an option for Edinburgh schools but education chiefs say they will not be the normLive lessons are now an option for Edinburgh schools but education chiefs say they will not be the norm
Live lessons are now an option for Edinburgh schools but education chiefs say they will not be the norm

Pupils in Edinburgh reported screens freezing or the system running slow.

And First Minister Nicola Sturgeon highlighted the issue at her daily coronavirus briefing.

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She said: "I know some of you might be having an issue this morning with Microsoft Teams. This is not an issue that is unique to Scotland or indeed unique to schools but I understand Microsoft is currently working to address it."

Teams is one of the main platforms used by Scottish local authorities for remote learning.

Earlier, Edinburgh City Council had texted parents saying: "There is a citywide problem with Microsoft Teams this morning. Please be patient as the council is working to resolve it."

Most pupils are learning at home until February at least, with schools open only for vulnerable pupils and children of key workers.

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There is a mixed picture of remote learning provision across Scotland, with many councils planning live lessons but others not doing so.

Midlothian Council today stressed its schools would be offering live lessons despite a BBC survey wrongly naming them as one of the authorities which would not.

Edinburgh City Council has lifted a ban on the use of the camera function on Microsoft Teams, which means it is now possible for teachers and pupils to see each other. But education chiefs have warned parents not to expect video-conference-style classes to be the norm.

Other provision includes recorded lessons, one-to-one tutorials and online exercises.

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