Challenges faced by the Teachers and Students in online learning during COVID-19

Abstract

Most of the educational institutions (Universities, Schools and Colleges) in Pakistan are based on traditional method of learning and teaching. Although various institutions are now converting the learning methods from traditional to technology based online learning. At the end of 2019, the sudden outbreak of Pandemic disease Covid-19 has totally changed the learning and teaching system. Many educational institutions that were based on traditional methods of learning and teaching have to shift entirely on online learning and teachings. A survey based research has been conducted to highlight the challenges faced by students and teachers during Covid-19 in learning and teachings at undergraduate and graduate levels. The results of the research indicated that the students and teachers faced a lot of problems during the online learning and teaching. The online learning system of Pakistan, problems during online learning and solutions to the online learning problems are also discussed. This research will give a direction for the solution of problems associated with online learning and teachings.

Emergency remote teaching during COVID-19: traits and constraints that arise when teaching computer skills to Saudi preparatory year students

“…In the literature, numerous studies have investigated online learning during the pandemic, identifying challenges and obstacles that may be classified as: (1) personal factors, such as students’ lack of time management skills (inability to balance education, work, and family responsibilities), students’ difficulties in understanding the material, poor concentration, and loss of motivation (Akhter, 2020 ; Kara et al, 2019 ), (2) technical factors, including a lack of Internet access, technical issues, low computer literacy, lack of training and resources, and barriers to lab work (Adnan & Anwar, 2020 ; Anwar et al, 2020 ; Hafeez et al, 2021a , 2021b ; Kaisara & Bwalya, 2021 ). Moreover, most of the students accessed the online classes via their smartphones and were unable to receive as much of the content as those who used a computer (Adnan & Anwar, 2020 ; Kaisara & Bwalya, 2021 ), and (3) communication factors, like limited interaction with tutors and peers, and social isolation (Adnan & Anwar, 2020 ; Anwar et al, 2020 ; Hafeez et al, 2021a ; Kara et al, 2019 ).…”

“…To shed more light on these challenges, Hafeez et al ( 2021a ) surveyed 50 university students, determining that 56% of the sample faced login problems, whilst 78% faced audio-visual problems. Based on these findings, 72% of the students were dissatisfied.…”

“…Shifting teaching from face-to-face to online mode requires significant investment in the requisite tools and equipment, as well as investing in the training of teachers and students. For example, it requires the development of online-learning content in a variety of formats such as video, audio-, and text, in order to foster an efficient and effective education system (Aliyyah et al, 2020 ; Hafeez et al, 2021b ). It also requires lecturers to adjust their teaching strategies and modify the learning materials (Hamid et al, 2020 ).…”

“…Moreover, it should be noted that not all learners have access to computer devices. Thus, it is essential to ensure that the necessary learning app is appropriate for smartphones, and that the students have Wi-Fi and Internet access (Hafeez et al, 2021b ). Another essential component of online learning is support from teachers and parents through the provision of a suitable learning environment, encouragement of peer collaboration, and availability of educational resources (Aliyyah et al, 2020 ).…”

“…Thus, the goal of the educational process is not fulfilled until learners can practice what they have learned. However, online courses do not necessarily provide students with opportunities for practice, as in the case of medical courses (Hafeez et al, 2021a ). Instead, the best way to teach practical skills is through blended learning, as recommended by Nalova ( 2021 ).…”