The existence of a pandemic has made the education system in Indonesia and even the world switch to an online system. We are all required to keep our distance so as not to transmit the virus that is sweeping the world. This makes experts and workers in the field of education to develop new models that can improve the quality of learning even through mobile or PC screens. It is a challenge for educators who are directly dealing with students and parents.

Now several schools in Indonesia that have been separated from the Covid-19 red zone can conduct face-to-face learning. Of course, with strict health protocols, such as mandatory social distancing, wearing masks, not crowding, washing hands and checking temperature when entering the school area. Even though it’s not fully face-to-face, aka still 50% face-to-face, teachers can create a fun learning atmosphere with one method called Crossover Learning.

The definition of Crossover Learning is to combine formal learning in the classroom with informal learning outside the classroom. Crossover Learning can help students apply the knowledge they have learned in formal classes and put it into practice in the real world.

That is, students get a deeper learning experience than just memorizing material or theory. For most students, Crossover Learning can be a form of recreation due to the saturation of formal material in class.

For those who have entered face-to-face classes, Crossover Learning can be done in a school environment. For example, the material in the Physical Education subject, the teacher provides an understanding of the material in class through the LKS book, after that they practice it outside the classroom such as in the field or school yard.

Planning is something that must be done before carrying out anything. No exception in the learning process at school. This year, Indonesia implemented the RPP Merdeka Learning which only contains one page. This does look short, but of course it needs to be explained in the form of a syllabus and student portfolio.

Before carrying out learning, RPP needs to be prepared first. Teachers can list Crossover Learning as one of the methods that will be used in online classes. This inclusion will help teachers to be more focused in outlining the indicators of student competency standards later in their portfolios.

Every student must have a portfolio in all subjects, this is useful as a guide for teachers and students. In addition, it also plays a role in evaluation which can later develop an effective learning model. Student portfolios in Crossover Learning can help teachers arrange any formal and informal tasks that students will carry out to fulfill basic competencies.

Of course Crossover Learning must involve formal classes in the method. This is as usual, the teacher carries out learning through the Zoom application and provides practice questions. Formal classes will be the foundation of students if later apply them in formal classes.

Even though it is called a formal class, students are entitled to a pleasant learning experience. Don’t think that formal classes will be boring and make students sleepy. Teachers are still required to be creative so that the class remains fun.

Entering an informal class, the teacher can provide assignments that have been planned in the student’s portfolio via Whatsapp Group messages. For example, in science lessons, the teacher gives informal class assignments such as observing plant growth. Students are required to plant corn or other grains whose growth must be recorded. After a few weeks, students can make reports and present them in class via Zoom or upload presentation videos on the Youtube channel.

In informal classes, students get a more real learning experience. Turning abstract material into something real makes them more impressed and the material sticks in their memory. The material or theory they prove through informal classes will also help them in their daily life. For example, in the practice of conversational English subjects, when they meet foreigners aka Caucasians who ask for a location, they can answer well because they have had the experience of learning in informal classes.

During distance learning, parents are required by the school to accompany their children to study. Without their role, students will have difficulty abstracting the material presented by the teacher. Informal classes in Crossover Learning really need the help and assistance of parents. For example, in electrical conductor material, students need to string cables and batteries.

This practice will be dangerous if the students are still in elementary school level. Therefore, parents are obliged to assist in assembling it, of course they also have to explain to their children about the process and the name of the item.

Here are some of the advantages of Crossover Learning

  1. Improving Student Creativity
  2. Facilitate Teachers in Evaluation
  3. Not boring