The Future of Education. COVID-19: THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION

COVID-19: THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION
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The Novel Coronavirus is the current world pandemic, which has resulted in adverse effects on the global economy. It was first discovered in December 2019 in Wuhan, China, and ever since it has spread to almost all countries globally. The worldwide educational system has been affected and has led to total closure of institutions of learning in most countries. Most governments have suspended learning temporarily in schools in an effort to contain the spread of the disease by allowing children and teachers to stay at home. The disease is highly contagious and spreads faster therefore, there is a need for social distancing. Social distancing is not achievable when learning goes on normally in schools. A study reveals that as of seventh June 2020, about 1.7 billion learners globally have been affected due to the closure of learning institutions (Van Lancker, W., & Parolin, Z. 2020).
UNICEF study shows that one hundred and thirty-four countries have closed schools with thirty-eight nations affecting local closures. Schools are only open in thirty-nine countries worldwide. This study shows that ninety-eight percent of world school children and students have been affected. Recently Cambridge international examinations center announced the cancellation of all its examinations in all countries. School closures have not only affected teachers, students, and families but also social and economic activities. The impact is more adverse for disadvantaged families and children, leading to nutrition challenges, childcare issues, interrupted learning, and economic hardships for those with no jobs (Sahu, P. 2020).
Education has been impacted in the following ways.
Challenges for students and teachers
Schools, tertiary institutions, and universities have now converted their lessons to online education platforms where students and teachers deal with communication and learning remotely. The technology was already being used in school, but education now depends on it fully. The use of technology has left many struggling due to technological challenges such as constructing learning schedules and plans outside the school environment. The use of technology requires technological resources, which include internet connection, network, and access to computers. This has disadvantaged teachers and students who reside in areas with network and internet connection challenges. Students in those areas have lagged behind.
Delays
School admissions and national exams testing have delayed worldwide. Most states in the U.S have decided to delay or even cancel standard testing while the rest are opting to extend their tenure in school because of days missed in school and inability to do examinations. In universities, semesters have delayed even as students and teachers have been advised to utilize online learning platforms. Some courses have practical sessions, and online learning platforms do not provide such. Since they are not fully effective, it has resulted in delays as affected students have to wait until they resume classes when schools reopen.
Students concentration challenges
Small and yo...