The COVID-19 pandemic has completely disrupted everyone’s way of living, caused health problems on a global scale, and spawned countless restrictions such as social distancing and community lockdowns. And because its effects are expected to last for at least a few more years, it’s often said that we now have to learn to adjust to living the ‘new normal.’
In particular, the education sector had to make abrupt changes when lockdowns were suddenly implemented. Most schools transitioned quickly to remote learning to continue the school year. Instead of face-to-face classes, most students had to take classes virtually in the comfort of their homes. Although this new setup seemed manageable at first, it significantly impacted the students’ response, behavior, and overall performance as time went by.
The Rise Of Remote Learning
Distance learning is now a fast-emerging setup for many learning institutions. It became a viable solution to continue providing education to students despite the limitations brought about by social restrictions.
Most lessons were made available through websites and online learning programs. In addition, teachers were encouraged to conduct their lectures through virtual meeting platforms.
Although the transition to remote classes made it possible for students to continue their studies despite the pandemic, it also contributed to an abrupt change in the learning environment for many. As a result, the shift in learning and teaching methodologies affected students’ performance and engagement.
Receiving education virtually seemed unconventional and challenging for those who never took online classes before the pandemic. After all, they need to get used quickly to only seeing their instructors and classmates online. Moreover, the familiar atmosphere of a classroom that may contribute to their enthusiasm about learning cannot be simulated in online lectures. Thus, it has become common for students to lose interest during classes. The changes also affected how they delivered their school requirements.
Fortunately, there are learning tools present to aid students who are struggling to cope with their new classroom setup. More adjustments were also made to help individuals adapt to their new study arrangement. Flexible deadlines and improved accessibility of online learning materials have also become the norm.
For younger students, the prevalence of tutoring also helped them keep up with the pace of their lectures and school requirements.
Tutorial As A Supplement
One effective supplement to online learning is virtual tutoring. Since students can’t be monitored closely by their teachers and even parents during online lectures, getting a tutor to help explain any difficult lessons after class hours may be beneficial.
Tutoring platforms like Tutorme can aid students’ online learning experience and help them maintain a good performance in school. A one-on-one session with a tutor can also help students focus better on their lessons and even learn new techniques that can make difficult topics easier. Additionally, it can help to reinforce the motivation of the student who may feel less enthusiastic about their classes.
Online tutoring services also provide a great avenue for parents to ensure their children are still learning despite the limitations. It can be challenging for parents at home to monitor and teach their children, especially if they’re no longer familiar with the lessons or are too busy with work. Hiring an experienced tutor to improve the student's learning experience is an excellent supplement to remote classes.
How To Cope With The New Normal?
Despite the numerous challenges that emerged with the implementation of online education, there are many ways for students to cope with the new normal in learning. Here are a few:
- Set A Space And Schedule
Setting boundaries between school responsibilities and personal life can be challenging when you’re stuck at home. For one, there are more distractions at home that may hinder learners from focusing on studying. If this is your case, create a routine and designate a space where you can concentrate better when studying.
Find a place in your house where you can study without being interrupted. You can stay inside your room or pick an area outdoors like your patio where you can be alone. You should also advise the rest of your household about your class schedule so they won’t get in the way when your online classes are on.
Distance learning can be a more convenient option for you as long as you know how to balance your schedule and have a conducive space for learning.
- Choose Flexibility
You may find it easier to study if you’re in charge of your class schedule. If you haven’t picked a school yet, see if you can find a school that offers flexible classes through asynchronous learning.
If you can control your daily class hours, you can plan your activities better and avoid getting too swamped. It’ll also be easier to complete your requirements on time and learn your lessons at your own pace.
However, remember that not all learning institutions offer flexibility to their students outright. Before you enroll, make sure to inquire with the administration first about flexible options, in case they’re able to accommodate it but just aren’t actively promoting it.
- Earn On The Side
Remote learning can be more expensive than traditional classes. If you don’t have a computer at home, you’ll have to invest in one. On top of that, you’ll also have to spend on an internet subscription. If costs are one of your biggest challenges in remote learning, you’ll have to learn to wear more hats.
If you still have room in your schedule, working on a side hustle may help you in many ways. Aside from augmenting your allowance as a student, it’ll also help build your independence and teach you proper work ethics.
Don’t forget to save while earning, which may be difficult, but not impossible with discipline. If you can find a side job online, that’s even better. It’s another way to make your computer even more useful—by earning from it.
Final Thoughts
As the pandemic continues to upend the world as we know it, the new normal has only proven that learning doesn’t, and shouldn’t stop. Although it has advantages and disadvantages, it has helped to provide a sense of normalcy in the lives of young learners despite the social restrictions imposed everywhere. In the future, remote learning is expected to continue to be a viable alternative in providing accessible education to students, even when everything finally goes back to the kind of normal we’ve all been yearning for.
