The coronavirus has brought forth unprecedented challenges and obstacles for educational institutes throughout the world. As a part of the efforts to contain the virus, public places are still closed in many countries. Schools, colleges, and universities are conducting classes online to maintain the flow of knowledge.
Although a necessary measure, as it keeps millions of people from interacting, the closure of schools has its consequences. The disruption of education although short term came as a shock to many families. As virtual learning called for the involvement of parents as well, specifically for younger students. Institutes of all levels did their best to make a rapid shift from physical to remote classes. But massive transitions like this take time to reach stability and the stage of fruition.
Debates are still going on about the impacts these changes have had on students as a whole. Do the negative aspects weigh heavier than the positive ones? Studies show mixed statistics, and any certain outcomes are hard to come by. But we can take time to examine how are these circumstances affecting the masses who are still at school.
How is Covid-19 affecting learning outcomes
Starting out with the biggest challenges which loomed over student’s academic progress was disturbance in examinations. It was relatively easier to shift classes online rather than immediately prepare for conducting exams virtually. Therefore, most assessments were postponed or cancelled altogether.
At first glance, the cancellation of internal exams might not seem that major an issue. But they are an essential tool for providing information about the current learning developments in a student. Without assessments, both high performing students and ones with learning difficulties can experience setbacks.
Online classes on the other hand were and are the best alternative until physical classes resume. But accessibility is the factor which keeps this option from being perfect. As long as the students have a sound internet connection and a computer or smart device it works. But there is a good number of pupils all over the world who come from disadvantaged backgrounds. Especially remote areas in third world countries where access to these is impossible.
These remain to be the serious negative effects of COVID-19 when it comes to learning. But alternate solutions are in process, and we hope that educational experts can come up with answers soon. As it is evident that the pandemic’s eradication is a gradual and painstaking process. Online education might be the only option for several more years for students in most regions. Virtual assessment tools have already made examinations possible at this point down the road. Hence, we can expect more enhancements in the future.
How is Covid-19 affecting students’ social life
Schools or higher-level institutes are a place for young people to interact and earn life experiences. It is a whole world similar to the real one yet there is room to learn and grow. With others who are more or less feeling and facing the same things.
On a college campus, even the quietest of people, can build a life for themselves. There are opportunities to make friends with others who have similar interests as you. Or even create bonds with people who one would never have thought of approaching in different circumstances.
Direct interaction with instructors and mentors is also an important part of physical classes. Students having a hard time in lessons can spend extra hours after classes, receiving individual attention from the teacher. Participating in clubs and extracurricular activities, living in a dorm, and working your way through daily challenges. These are all invaluable experiences which can only be had while attending school or colleges physically.
The outbreak of Covid-19 has put an end to social interaction for an uncertain amount of time. Which leads us to our last point.
How is Covid-19 affecting students’ mental health
A lack of social interaction for a prolonged period of time can be seriously deteriorating for our mental health. Especially for younger students who need new connections and to refine their social skills for the future. Being confined to the limitations of a screen can create barriers for real life interaction.
The flexibility of online university classes is liberating at one hand. Students can learn at their own pace and focus on other responsibilities like family and part-time jobs. The extra hours even allow applying for jobs with the help of a good cv writings service. But there are also students who do not have these options to keep them busy. Having no routine whatsoever can be severely damaging in the long run. It is easy to fall into an unhealthy behavioral pattern when there is not a lot to look forward to.
The sense of normalcy provided by the happenings and people at an educational institute is largely affected by Covid-19. Isolation and loss of motivation can be the inevitable results of these circumstance. It is essential that institutes devise programs for management of mental health during crises of covid-19.
Conclusion
The measures taken to battle the pandemic have become an indefinite part of our life. In all parts of our lives, we have to make ourselves get used to these new norms. We believe that with the passing of time, the negative effects can be overcome by workable solutions. Meanwhile, maintaining a positive mindset and medical tourism services physical regimen can keep students from suffering the brunt of it. A conscious effort is needed by each individual to push themselves towards prioritizing an alternate lifestyle.
About:-
Nida Amber is a professional writer from Dubai, Her reading pattern also developed her interest in travel and from that tip, she decided to offer the best online Umrah taxi company in Saudi Arabia.