Impact of ICT-Enabled Teaching–Learning Processes in Physical Sciences in Indian Higher Education in Light of COVID-19: A Comprehensive Overview

Abstract

The COVID-19 (coronavirus disease) pandemic has caused a lot of damage to the social, economic and educational infrastructure of the world. The rapid change in the online learning environment calls for the development of effective learning strategies to support student learning. Principally information communication technology (ICT) emerged as a new hope in teaching–learning in streams like science and technology. Especially in the teaching-learning of a challenging subject like physics and its various streams, e.g. mechanics, wave, optics, etc., the use of ICT has increased exponentially due to its unique properties. However, some of its side effects have also been visible during this period. This study presents the feedback, experiences and recommendations of physics teachers regarding the application of ICT in the teaching–learning of physics. This article offers a comprehensive view of the impact of information and communication technology-enabled teaching–learning processes in physical sciences. To accomplish this study, an 18-question questionnaire was circulated among physics teachers across the nation and more than 100 physics teachers participated and recorded their responses. The outcomes of these responses were analysed, and corresponding conclusions with recommendations are presented. This study may be helpful for students, teachers, researchers and policymakers working in this field of ICT-enabled physics education.