Globalization and technological advancement have immensely connected our world; unfortunately, this equation applies to the risks and hazards we face. The coronavirus pandemic has eliminated all national borders, emerging as an unprecedented health crisis that has halted our lives.
It has penetrated all economic activity forms, be it the travel industry, construction, aviation, or education. Vulnerable communities are the hardest-hit victims of the pandemic, and this applies to education as well. While privileged students can access technological tools to enjoy quality education, unprivileged students are severely disadvantaged.
The global education system has witnessed rapid transformations in the wake of the coronavirus crisis. Schools worldwide have closed their doors to students, embracing alternative learning strategies to continue their activities. This unprecedented crisis has highlighted various weaknesses in the global education system, offering a rare opportunity to address them effectively.
This article will launch a discussion on the impact of COVID-19 on educational institutions across the world.
Here, take a look:
SHIFT TO E-LEARNING
Educational institutions, from kindergarten and high school to higher education, are rapidly adopting e-learning models. Online learning has emerged as the most viable alternative to physical learning, allowing educational institutes to sustain their profitability models. The lockdowns imposed to curb the virus from spread has dismantled conventional schooling environments.
Teachers and students across the world are adapting to online learning models with various platforms and tools. The economic slowdown has offered students and young professionals a rare opportunity to catch up with their education. Institutions offer courses, diplomas, and training certifications to help professionals advance their education and enjoy more excellent career opportunities.
For instance, professionals who were previously disadvantaged can now apply for a high school diploma online. Young professionals can pursue their education beyond graduation, sign up for tech certifications and prestigious universities’ courses. This shift to e-learning has undoubtedly opened up numerous opportunities for those who seek education with convenience and affordability.
LEARNING PLATFORMS & TOOLS
In the months since the lockdown, learning platforms, such as Coursera and Masterclass, have witnessed a significant rise in enrollments. Institutions and digital platforms are rapidly partnering up with tech-giants, such as Google and Microsoft, to introduce lucrative certifications. Certifications in machine learning, web designing, and programming have emerged as a lucrative avenue for professionals seeking career advancements.
The education sector has responded to the lockdown by introducing databases and information libraries that allow numerous learning opportunities. These free-of-charge databases and libraries promote learning and help institutions cement an image of integrity and social service.
Professionals and students forced indoors are increasingly exploring opportunities to use their time constructively. Skill-building is rapidly rising as the human race struggles from solitude and loneliness and the resulting depression and anxiety.
WEAKNESSES & PITFALLS
As mentioned earlier, the pandemic has highlighted various pitfalls and weaknesses of our education system. While privileged students have transitioned to online learning, students from underprivileged backgrounds are struggling.
Online learning requires certain prerequisites: access to computers and broadband and the necessary funds to join institutions that support remote learning. E-learning requires a supportive environment consisting of teachers and parents that are eager to teach. Not all students have access to these resources and supportive environments.
The pandemic has blatantly exposed the inequality and inequity that exists in education systems across the world. A significant chunk of the global student population remains deprived of their fundamental right to education. It has also brought about alarming reductions in their health and nutrition quality. Many students relied on public education to obtain quality food and nutrition. It reveals a gross misalignment of resources and benefits, demanding a correction as we struggle to fight the pandemic.
CHALLENGES IN ADAPTING
While online learning transitions deserve to applaud for their success, they have also come with numerous challenges. It appears that the conventional schooling model is missing until the birth of a vaccine that is capable of mass-production. Despite the education sector’s concerted efforts to make the transition more comfortable, the challenges remain active.
Teachers are struggling to adapt to this new mode of delivering education through pedagogical approaches. Students are also struggling to adjust to this new learning mode, deprived of their peers and friends’ comradery. It is crucial to note that this transition was sudden and unplanned. Students and teachers have not undergone any training to make this transition more comfortable, which has immensely reduced learning quality.
Meanwhile, experts remain disputed over the potential advantages and disadvantages of online learning models. While some argue that e-learning is more beneficial than conventional schooling, others say that it has reduced education quality. Between these research-backed arguments, little to address these challenges and facilitate learners and their instructors.
CONCLUSION
On the side, the pandemic has given birth to an opportunity for young professionals to seek out education. People who were once disadvantaged or financially burdened are using their time towards skill-building and advanced education.
E-learning has various advantages and drawbacks, but the fact remains: it has sustained the education sector tremendously. It is allowing millions of students to continue learning and advancing without impediments.
The COVID-19 emergency has taught us that learners from marginalized communities have felt the most significant impact of this crisis. It is crucial to seek out avenues to ensure equality in the distribution of digital learning resources.
