The impact of the Coronavirus on education
Many sectors have been negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Impact of the Coronavirus on education was tremendous and visible. Normal parts of life like work and hanging out with your friends have dramatically changed. But as we pass September, another important sector has risen to the forefront of the public consciousness, education. Many of us who have graduated and already moved into the workforce may have forgotten about this fundamental sector of society. Parents, kids, and college students, however, have been dreading the impact of the coronavirus on education.
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The challenges of studying during a pandemic
So much of education and academia is done in-person that it is difficult to imagine a digital classroom, even in our modern age. But we do know one thing, it is possible and has been for decades. Online college classes are not unheard of, and even children know of online tutoring. These institutions have been successful, but it is important to note that they were for the most part elective. Students who could handle online education took part in these optional classes, but what about the rest of us?
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Studying during a pandemic – Age groups
Older kids and young adults have faired well so far. Teachers faced issues in keeping the attention of their students. but adapting their teaching style to be more verbally and visually engaging has proved useful. Many teachers have also begun typing up their own class notes too, so students can focus on listening to their classes. Those who struggle with independent study and paying attention to classes have had a difficult time. This goes beyond discipline however, because many kids can’t help their wondering minds. In these cases, many parents have stepped in to help as much as they can.
Measuring progress
Another important consideration, particularly for college students, is the methods of measuring student progress. Assignments like tests are difficult to monitor while ensuring no cheating or dishonesty takes place. To accommodate for this, many teachers and professors have taken to written assignments like essays and papers to gage student knowledge. This has helped, but it has also left many unsatisfied.
Younger children have taken the hardest hit in their education. Many parents are not able to give them the attention they need, and their methods of learning is often more tactile and activity oriented. It is suspected that many children will be behind in their studies when the virus lifts next year. College students have it a bit easier because those who know that they are not able to learn properly through distance education can decide to take a gap year.
Last few words on self-growth
Overall, the state of education during the COVID-19 pandemic is very concerning. Many students will not be able to access to type of education they benefit from the most. Those who can cope may be able to get by, but those who can’t, may very well be left at a disadvantage. Both educators and students alike need time to adapt to this new educational environment, and they likely haven’t been given enough time to prepare. Some educators and students may not even have the technology needed for distance education. Only time will tell what the lasting effects this pandemic will have on education in the future, but it is clear more measures need to be put in place to better handle these unforeseen circumstances.