Adolescents and Distance Learning during the First Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Italy: What Impact on Students’ Well-Being and Learning Processes and What Future Prospects?

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to analyze the experiences related to distance learning in a large sample of students in upper secondary school during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Italy and to explore the potentialities of distance learning for students’ well-being. Methods: Between 22 April and 1 May 2020, 1017 students completed an online survey about the characteristics of online didactic, the availability of devices for distance learning, and the psychological experiences related to e-learning. Results: All Italian schools have adopted distance learning, even if each teacher employs different approaches to e-learning. Students are aware of the importance of distance learning for the containment of the pandemic and of the need to continue with online teaching to avoid the resumption of the infections. However, distance learning is associated with a significant increase in student workload and a consequent psychological distress related to homework. Specifically, students are more distracted in studying, have difficulty organizing study and are concerned that their school career may be adversely affected by the lockdown. Furthermore, a significant percentage does not perceive adequate support from teachers. Conclusions: Future studies will have to explore the impact of distance learning even in the subsequent waves of contagion, taking into account the persistence of the stress from the pandemic.

Remote Learning Experience and Adolescents’ Well-Being during the COVID-19 Pandemic: What Does the Future Hold?

“…Apart from self-rated health, in which female students reported better overall health, they scored significantly lower on all other well-being measures (life satisfaction, and psychological and somatic symptoms) compared to male students. This finding is consistent with other studies showing that females consistently tend to report more mental health problems than males [ 27 , 36 , 37 , 38 ] The males’ poorer self-rated health could reflect the specific conditions of the pandemic in which social distancing restrictions have lessened their physical activity levels and increased their sedentary behavior, all which are associated with poorer health [ 39 , 40 , 41 , 42 ].…”

Statistical Analysis of Covid Impact on Education in North America

“…School closures have ranged from none in a few nations to more than one school year in others. At least a third of students are unable to learn remotely due to a lack of connectivity and equipment [10]. Despite the Omicron version, most nations' schools are open with health and safety regulations and immunization regimens in place.…”

“…Furthermore, most instructors did not receive appropriate help from their colleagues. Finally, the COVID-19 outbreak has brought a significant and pressing issue: the impact of school closures and online education on learning and mental health of students [10]. These are unquestionably unusual circumstances that can cause tension and worry in students and instructors.…”

The Impact of the Corona Virus Disease 2019 Pandemic on Chinese Middle School Students’ Self-Perceived Emotional States: A Wuhan Perspective

“…The results indicated that females showed more significant psychological negative feelings about the quarantine experience. Similarly, Commodari and La Rosa (2021) examined 1017 secondary school students' distance learning experiences during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Italy. The results indicated that distance learning was associated with a significant increase in student workload and consequent psychological distress related to homework.…”