Online teaching in schools during the pandemic : a study of challenges and responses in Delhi

Abstract

The pandemic sparked numerous concerns regarding its direct and indirect impacts on education. Learning losses have been one of the most prevalent sources of concern. While the concern worldwide was on the learning crisis and making education accessible to students little attention was paid to the changing roles of teachers. Teachers had to adapt according to the changing needs of remote teaching and learning. While the world at large was busy citing concerns about students they missed how quickly and rapidly teachers adopted the virtual mode of teaching. Despite facing extreme challenges and with minimal support they tried their best to bridge the learning gaps. This study focuses on understanding the challenges teachers faced when they were forced to transition virtually in a short span of time. The study also covers the training sessions that were provided to teachers by the government and school authorities and the effectiveness of the training modules. The study also highlights the need for additional support in the form of devices, internet and psychological support that was required by teachers at that time. For better understanding of the situation parents, students, teachers and government officials were interviewed and their experiences form the major part of the study. The study aims to highlight important lessons that can be learned from the response of government and school authorities. The study underlines the need for a sustainable policy mandate and going beyond a mere crisis management response.