LEC052021. Gayathri M G. Essay: Online mode of education.

 

                                                     Effects of Online Classes on Students

            Effective education is possible only when the system can change according to the need of the situation. With the pandemic, circumstances require practical methods to continue education for the students. Technology has risen to the occasion to provide the necessary learning support. E-learning platforms and devices like mobile phones, laptops, etc. provide them with the necessities to continue their studies. Just like every other field, online learning also has its boons and banes. Along with accessibility, flexibility and development of new skills being some of the key factors, online learning is also a cause of great mental strain for the students.

             Online learning is defined as “learning experiences in synchronous or asynchronous environments using different devices (e.g., mobile phones, laptops, etc.) with internet access. In these environments, students can be anywhere (independent) to learn and interact with instructors and other students” (Singh & Thurman). Synchronous learning environment includes live lectures, interactions and instant feedback. Asynchronous environment, on the other hand, includes learning content available in different forums. Zoom and Google Meet are some of the platforms which can provide an alternative for face-to-face classes. The Central and State governments have taken up several initiatives to conduct classes. They use media like educational channels (Victers) and PM e-VIDYA platform which are accessible and more affordable for students.

            Availability of internet at all places remains to be one of the main challenges in attending online classes. India is a developing nation. As such, it is not possible to meet the needs of every citizen in the country. Connectivity is not available in every village and even if it is present, the network is not be fast enough to meet the needs of the students. Thus, students have to go through great struggles to attend the classes.

            Affordability of electronic gadgets is another problem which the students face. The pandemic has resulted in the loss of jobs for many people making it impossible for at least half the parents to afford the required gadgets. This is a problem which was overlooked by a lot of educational institutions when they shifted to online mode of learning. Such problems can only add to the mental pressure of the students who are not used to online mode of education.

            Increased screen time has been causing major health problems for students since the start of online classes. The fact that they have to depend on digital appliances for taking down notes, doing assignments, projects, etc. only make the problem worse. The long hours spend on screens have raised the problems of headaches, eye problems and stress in the students. Dry eyes, redness in eyes, lack of sleep, increased mood swings, eye fatigue are some of the possible results. More time in front of the screens of mobiles and laptops can lead to a feeling of isolation and anxiety of the present.

            Schools and universities provide an environment where students can interact with each other and feel themselves to be part of a group. Physical interaction with teachers play a great role in a student’s life. Even though online classes provide interaction with teachers, some of the students would have qualms in talking up through the platform. Learning in a classroom environment would help the students build a connection with other students and provide them with a sense of belonging. It plays a great role in boosting their confidence and developing their personality. Though online classes open up a wide world to the students, it can also cut them off from their surroundings. This isolation can lead to depression and affect their mental health.

            In the face of the pandemic, online classes are the only solution to solve the problems relating to education. Online teaching has turned out to be a necessity more than an option. At the same time, effective steps should be taken to make sure that the facilities are available to every student. Online classes should be designed in such a way that they are student-centred, interactive and creative. Also, adequate steps should be taken to help the students in dealing with stress and anxiety related to this mode of teaching.

References:

Singh, V., & Thurman, A. “How many ways can we define online learning? A systematic literature review of definitions of     online learning (1988-2018).” American Journal of  Distance Education, 33(4), 2018: 289–306.

Dhawan, Shivangi. “Online Learning: A Panacea in the Time of Covid-19 Crisis.” Journal of Educational Technology     Systems, vol 49, issue 1, 2020: 5-22. Accessed on 25 Feb 2021.

Singh, Rajanbir. “Online classes leading to stress, eye problems in children.” Hindustan Times, 15 July, 2020. Accessed on 25     Feb 2021.