Jun 2, 20203 min read

Is E-Learning Stressful to Students?

One of the biggest casualties of the COVID -19 pandemic and the resultant lockdown has been institutionalized education. Schools have been shut to prevent the spread of the virus and this has given way to online classrooms, a very new concept in India even for the most sophisticated schools. It is commendable how easily some educational institutions have moved to virtual classrooms, all thanks to tools such as Zoom, Google Hangouts, and Microsoft Teams. But there are some still struggling to get online.

There are teachers and schools putting extra effort to engage students in classes by revamping timetables, shifting discussions online, taking feedback from parents, and monitoring students constantly. While there are some who are doing the bare minimum and using WhatsApp to stay connected with students. Some schools are trying out tools like SeeSaw, Google Suite and YouTube videos to make online classes as engaging as offline ones. But there are also those that are failing miserably at this shift.

How To Overcome 5 Common Problems Faced By Students In E-Learning

E-Learning, being the latest wave of education, is already having a fair show despite posing challenges for both instructors and students. While instructors need to put in intensive work and time to design the instruction, students need to equip themselves with technical proficiency to decode the course material.

There are 5 common problems faced by students in eLearning classes and which they need to be solved through proper initiatives for the students’ future benefits:

Adopt to learn more :

Switching from traditional classroom and face to face instructor training to computer-based training in a virtual classroom makes the learning experience entirely different for students. Their resistance to change doesn’t allow them to adapt to the online learning environment, whereas it takes time for them to get accustomed to Course Management Systems (CMS) and the methods of computer-based education. While passive listening and notes taking are expected in a traditional classroom, online discussions, or creating a web page demand springing into action. Students with a “traditional” mindset find it difficult to adapt; however, they need to accept the new learning circumstances with an open mind and heart. Understanding the benefits of eLearning and even discussing them with their peers may change this mindset and better prepare students for online classes.

Adapting to new technical issues:

Many students are not provided with the high bandwidth or the strong internet connection that online courses require, and thus fail to catch up with their virtual classmates: Their weak monitors make it hard to follow the Course Management System and their learning experience becomes problematic. Moreover, most of them live off campus and find it difficult to keep in tune with the technical requirements of the chosen course. Some of them don’t even own computers and seek help in the Learning Resource Centers for technical assistance. The only solution to this problem is knowing exactly what kind of technical support they will need for a certain course before enrolling in it, as well as properly equipping themselves for the course’s successful completion.

Computer Literacy, practice to learn more:

Although students are not aware of programming skills, lack of computer literacy is a major issue among students today. Many of them cannot operate basic programs such as Microsoft Word and PowerPoint and therefore are not able to handle their files. Furthermore, many students find fixing basic computer problems troublesome, as they have no knowledge in this area. However, technological proficiency is a must for following online courses, as it enables students to manage their assignments and Tests in an organized manner without struggling. Basic courses in computer literacy enhance students’ knowledge in the field; having a fundamental knowledge of computer hardware would help them participate in online classes without interruptions and hindrances.

Adopting new time management skills:

Time management is a difficult task for eLearners, as online classes require a lot of time and intensive work. A regular schedule planner would be a significant help to these learners, as they could even set reminders for their classes and assignments.

Mastering the Self-Motivation:

Self-motivation is an eLearning essential requirement; Students need to find the motivation to follow the new educational trends and also properly equip themselves for future challenges in their education and careers. Only a positive attitude will help them overcome the challenges in eLearning; though this is hard to practice, students need to understand that it is necessary in order to reap the eLearning’s benefits in the future.

This is where Manas can help you, we provide psychological services for those children who need assistance with their problems.