The COVID-19 pandemic has brought drastic changes in the way how education is imparted around the world, adversely affecting approximately 2.3 billion students in more than countries around the globe. More than ninety percent of the world’s student fraternity has been adversely affected by the schools, universities, and other educational institutions‘ closures. This has brought substantial changes in every aspect of our lives. Mandatory following of Covid protocols has disturbed traditional teaching and learning processes.
Government and policymakers in India are busy designing innovative ways of teaching and learning in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Physical classes have been phased out at several educational institutes across the country. There is a deep concern that the 2021 academic year is already lost and ther’s much more to be lost in the future.
Technology-driven alternative unconventional education delivery and evaluation methods are the urgent need of the present time. The pandemic has given us the ability to, willingly or unwillingly explore digital learning.
Inadequate infrastructure for digital education, educators’ limited exposure to online teaching, the resources divide, unsupportive environment for learning at home, and willingness of the part of teachers and the taught are some of the challenges in developing a comprehensive eco-system for online education in India.
While several alternative approaches have been tried, the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on education delivery around the globe indicates that, in the case of developing countries, like India, adequate digital infrastructure and different platforms for different levels of educational needs to be addressed urgently.
Limited and irregular internet connectivity, fewer access points, and expensive internet charges as compared to many developed countries, pose a serious threat to any sincere initiative for improving teaching and learning. To improve the situation, a holistic approach is needed at the policy formulation level. Another area of concern is the need for developing methods for authentic evaluations and accurate feedback. The affordability and accessibility of educational tools for all learners from various economic backgrounds is another challenge that needs considerate efforts.
Given the present scenario, education systems in India must invest significantly in the professional development of all stakeholders, especially in the digital space. Another area of focus should be to develop user-friendly resources to make online teaching more creative, innovative, and interactive. This will help to prepare the educational system for potential uncertainties.
The COVID-19 pandemic has taught us that the teacher and the taught should be sensitized on how to use various educational resources available in an online space.
–Dr. Aarti Loomba