Summary

Digital image of Owen, Rory and Hugh Quinn learning at home, it was taken by their mother Amy Quinn on 17 April 2020. One of the largest changes during the COVID-19 pandemic for many Victorians was the transition to remote learning and working. Schools and families had only two weeks to prepare for this transition and many had to make do as best they could.

Amy notes that in this image she was 'trying to capture our attempts at normality in a ridiculous situation. Setting up a school in the garage, of all places, seemed unusual enough to record. Truthfully, we had no space in the house.' This rapid transition also brought challenges for many families. For the Quinn family it was 'making the mental transition from school to home and having the kids understand that school is technically still continuing - that this is not just busywork, and yes, they do have to do it. We also have a toddler (Anthea, who is 2), and working around her has also been something of a challenge.' (Amy Quinn, May 2020)

However there have also been positives, 'it has been nice to be able to delve further into their learning than the assigned classes intend. I am a teacher myself, although currently on leave, and it has reminded me of what I love about teaching. I feel as though we're closer as a family now for having spend almost all of the past two months in each other's company.' (Amy Quinn, May 2020)

This image also speaks to the ways people have shared their experiences of life during lockdown. Amy took this photograph in response to a friend's post on Facebook asking people to share what they love about their children learning from home.

Description of Content

Three children sit at desks in a garage, converted temporarily into a workspace with colourful foam tiles on the floor.

Physical Description

Digital image.

More Information