Nothing has changed the face of education as much as the coronavirus pandemic. From smartphones and other electronic gadgets barred in several schools, to education shifting online, the sector went through a major transformation in a matter of weeks.

Both students and teachers have strived hard through this tough time to make themselves accustomed to the new way of learning. For teachers especially, managing some 40 odd students, ensuring the same level of teaching as in an in-person classroom, and adapting to new online tools, the change has been fraught with challenges.

Almost no interaction

The old form of learning was a lively process, where teachers and students interacted extensively. In this new form, where education is imparted from one’s home, the interaction has taken a hit and classes have turned dull.

Technical issues

Both students and teachers face network issues, that impact learning greatly. This poses a huge challenge, especially for those living in remote regions of the country.

No practical knowledge

Practical knowledge is a requisite in several subjects, especially science. This requires a laboratory apparatus. But with schools closed, practicals are usually skipped and a teacher is able to demonstrate only those activities for which articles are readily available at home.

Learning new tools

For several teachers who had minimal experience with technology, learning new online tools has been a big challenge. 

Parents sitting during classes

As opposed to a real classroom, parents have access to virtual classes. They often sit during classes, take notes for their children and even comment on the quality of teaching. This has been widely faced by kindergarten teachers, where students need their parents’ assistance to sit through the class.

Under constant watch

This one is stressful. As the classroom has shifted to one’s home, several teachers have felt they’re under the constant watch of the parents. They’ve to pay extra attention to how they speak, their mannerisms and even on how they dress.

No discipline

In an in-person class, maintaining discipline wasn’t an issue for several teachers. In the new form of learning, making sure that students are attentive and learning properly is challenging.

Many students turn off their camera after which it’s impossible to ascertain whether they’re learning or not.

Futile exams

As students give their exams from their homes, invigilation is impossible. It’s not hard to guess that the students might not be completely sincere while giving their exams. This has made the whole examination process quite pointless.

For teachers, checking hundreds of exam papers on a laptop is no small feat. 

Another challenge for female teachers

In traditional Indian homes, a woman is largely expected to perform the majority of household chores. Earlier, while female teachers could focus solely on their work during their working hours, in the new arrangement their families often expect them to cater to their needs while they’re working, which significantly hampers their productivity.

“They just think we’re on leave”, remarked a female teacher on this new arrangement.