Living with the New Normal: Problems and advances in the Education sector
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the global education system shifted drastically, pushing educators, students, and policymakers into an unprecedented phase. As virtual spaces became the new classrooms, there were challenges in introducing and adapting remote learning, inequalities in the education system, and the urgent need for education reform to make education accessible and relevant to all. However, the world quickly responded with innovative solutions to create a more robust and inclusive education framework.
Introduction of Remote Learning:
With restrictions on opening schools and social distancing mandates, remote learning became the new norm to proceed with the curriculum. Technology made the way for communication between teachers and students. However, disparities in income and access to resources (digital devices and the internet) increased educational inequalities. Students from marginalized communities and relatively poor backgrounds faced massive difficulties in learning, intensifying inequities in academic excellence.
Addressing Educational Inequalities:
The pandemic showed us how unfair our education system can be with the lack of resources. Students who were already struggling had an even harder time during the crisis. Students from marginalized and low-income families did not have the complete resources for online learning. However, society came together to help by giving out laptops and internet access, and the government created programs to support students financially.
Advancement in Distance Learning:
During the tough times of Covid-19, teachers, and tech companies stepped up and used technology to improve the conventional methods and introduce new methods of education. The creation of online platforms, virtual classrooms, and smart learning tools helped students stay interested even when they were not present in a real classroom environment. This enabled teachers to become more creative and find innovative ways of making teaching participative and at the same time impart the necessary information.
Reforming the Education System:
The pandemic underscored the shortcomings of the conventional education system and the need for reforms became significant. The focus shifted towards finding new ways of making education accessible and considering the emotional capabilities of a student, especially in such a difficult time.
Taking the path towards the new normal:
As we move forward, certainly, we can not just go back to how things were before. The pandemic showed us faults in our education system and emphasized the need to make some systematic changes. As we work to make things better, it's significant to focus on inclusion, equality, and innovation. We can harness the learnings and embrace the spirit of constant evolution.
In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic created problems and innovations that have significantly altered the essence of education. While there are going to be challenges along the way, there is also an opportunity to redesign education in a way that is more empowering, equitable, and inclusive. Let's capitalize on this time to create greater possibilities for learners around the world as we traverse the new normal.
About the author,
Prachi Mehta
An outgoing introvert who believes in the art of articulation, voracious to learn and explore the world. Solemn by face, a foodie by heart and a dreamer by grace. Worked as a freelance digital marketer leading social media engagement and marketing campaigns for diversified domains.
