The COVID-19 epidemic has significantly altered the contemporary educational system, requiring professors and students to adjust to a new method of instruction. While some changes have been useful and others challenging. The question still stands: Was COVID-19 beneficial or detrimental to the current educational system?
Due to the pandemic, schools were compelled to close and resort to online education, creating several challenges. Firstly, not every student has reliable internet connections and not every household is adequately equipped for online courses, resulting in a huge learning gap. On top of this, lecturers seeking student engagement in e-learning face barriers in finding a means of doing so in a virtual setting. Numerous educators reported poor academic performance caused by difficulties in focusing attention and monitoring student progress.
Conversely, the pandemic has prompted various positive reforms in today’s education system. For example, e-learning platforms are now being used in many schools, allowing students to access learning materials and complete assignments remotely from home. Therefore, a greater variety of courses can be offered, and students have the freedom to learn at their own pace.
Moreover, the pandemic has triggered widespread uptake of instructional technologies like interactive whiteboards, videoconferencing, and online collaboration tools. Nowadays, irrespective of their location, educators can deliver engaging lessons and co-operate with their peers. Likewise, increased emphasis is placed on the importance of students’ mental health and welfare in today’s education system. This issue, neglected for decades, is now being addressed by schools, where resources and therapies are available to students who need them. This more supportive environment has helped students to cope better with the challenges of the pandemic.
Although pandemic adjustments are both beneficial and detrimental, it is crucial to assess whether to adopt them as a standard teaching method in the future. Despite its advantages, e-learning cannot replace the interpersonal interactions and social engagement offered by traditional classrooms. Not all students are comfortable in an online environment which is not appropriate for all types of learners.
Furthermore, the pandemic has emphasized the significance of in-person teaching for students’ social and emotional development, who gain social skills and form meaningful relationships with their peers, professors, and other adults. Without this opportunity, students may struggle to develop the social and emotional skills required for success in life. Similarly, students with impairments may face constraints in online learning compelling additional support and accommodation. As for children with special needs, face-to-face learning offers more specialized attention and support.
In conclusion, the COVID-19 crisis greatly impacted today’s education system, creating opportunities and challenges for professors and students. Though e-learning and educational technologies are valuable, face-to-face instruction is vital for the social and emotional development of students. Mental health and student well-being ought to be a priority in schools in the future while striking a balance between face-to-face and online learning. Such an approach is key for a cutting-edge education system that is adaptable, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of diverse students.
Mohammad Tariq
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