The Impact of Corona on Education: A Personal and Systemic Analysis
Corona has had a profound impact on the education system without making much noise. It has affected students, teachers, and the system itself in various ways. In this article, we will explore the effects of the pandemic on education through a personal experience and broader systemic issues.
Personal Experience
As a first-year student joining college during the Corona period, I was caught in a significant change that affected both my academic and social life. Unlike my peers, I never even spent a day in college, which created a palpable distance between myself and faculty and students.
Being an introvert, the situation became even more challenging. In-person interactions were already daunting, and online classes added a new layer of difficulty. Even within the comfort of my own home, interacting with people virtually increased my anxiety. I found myself spending 5 hours daily in online classes, and the limited bandwidth of 2GB per day made it harder to concentrate.
Before the pandemic, I had a balanced routine of studying, reading novels, and enjoying my leisure time. This golden period of academic preparation and relaxation was replaced by a more monotonous and demanding schedule. Instead of thriving, I felt like I was sinking into a deeper abyss.
Effects on the System
The systemic changes brought about by the pandemic have been far-reaching. Some colleges have resorted to dubious practices such as charging exorbitant fees for online classes, which further exacerbate the financial strain on students. Additionally, students, especially freshers and non-self-learners, have not received the proper guidance and assistance they need. The interaction between students and teachers has drastically decreased, leading to a sense of isolation and disconnection.
Moreover, students from economically struggling backgrounds and oppressed classes are undergoing a significant psychic trauma due to the pandemic. Many families running on daily wages are unable to afford education, leading to a drop in enrolment rates. Interestingly, even in Tamil Nadu, known for its accessible educational system and high GER (Gross Enrollment Ratio), there has been an increase in dropout rates among higher education in government schools.
For those preparing for entrance exams, the situation is equally dire. Mushrooming coaching centers offer inadequate resources and schedules, making it a nightmare for students. Additionally, students who finished their Higher Secondary during the quarantine period are falling victim to college scams, and some parents are falling for these traps due to a sense of urgency.
The looming question of the third wave has put numerous private and government colleges in a precarious situation, unsure whether they will survive this crisis. It remains to be seen whether the education system in India will fall or recover swiftly.
Conclusion
Overall, the education system in India is currently in a state of jeopardy. While the situation is dire, there are glimmers of hope. Let us hope that things revert to normal soon, and everyone can prioritize their health and well-being through vaccination and other preventive measures.
Stay safe, stay informed, and keep asking questions.