Can virtual learning be integral part of our education system? A cross-sectional study to assess the various challenges faced by students during virtual classes in Punjab

Abstract

Background: The growth of technology has brought tremendous change in almost every sphere of life. Also, there is an impact on the process of education by the technology. Online learning has become the standard practice by many education institutions which use information and communication technologies (ICT) in managing the processes of learning and delivering teaching [1]. Our education system is also trying to adapt these technologies in lieu of their experiences during COVID19 which has disrupted the normal teaching and learning in universities and colleges and posed significant challenges to higher education. Educational institutions struggle
to find alternative options to face-to-face education to deal with this challenging situation [2].  So this study attempts to investigate the various challenges experienced by the students during virtual classes and to detect socio- demographic variables and other correlates associated with it. This cross-sectional study was conducted among the students of professional and non-professional courses institutes (Medical & Humanities) of District Patiala, Punjab where students were approached by means of emails, WhatsApp and other social platforms. Pre-structured and pre-tested proforma was distributed through google forms which was analyzed statistically using
Microsoft Excel and JASP software. Mean age of study participants was 20.86+ 2.4 years and majority 698(97.35%) were unmarried. Two fifth of the total study group 283(39.47%) were from upper middle socio-economic status and majority 426 (59.41%) were from Non-professional colleges. Challenges related to availability of smart devices and internet access as well as presence of separate space for virtual classes were significantly higher among the students who were not in favour of virtual classes. However, no co-relation was established between their socio-economic status and preferred of mode for learning. Students experiences with virtual classes can be
improved by focusing the various challenges found in this study which can serve as baseline information for the colleges to redesign or revise policies that are relevant and responsive in future.