Virtual learning for kids: Challenges for parents

Change is inevitable!

The world is going through a tectonic shift with the current pandemic situation where all of us are learning to adjust to new ways of life. The world of education too changed drastically bringing in the concept of virtual learning or e-learning. Although distance learning programs were always an alternative to the regular curriculum, the concept of digital learning took the world by storm impressing students, parents, all academic institutions, and the like. 

Now, the question is how can we benefit from such a virtual learning process in the long-run? Let’s not forget that virtual learning covers a wide range of age groups starting from kindergarten and preliminary grades to high school, college, and university. Every child is unique and their learning graph too is inimitable. This is where virtual learning helps children of nascent age to learn at their own pace which classroom learning can hinder. Also, it adds scope to opt for an individual learning schedule that becomes nearly impossible to choose during regular school hours and its convenience is beyond imagination with reduced geographical boundaries.

Hence, we can say that virtual learning is much more engaging with real-time assessments powered by advanced tools. Since online learning materials can be updated on a regular basis contrary to their printed version. Based on general observation, kids who are generally introvert in nature and silent in the classroom are more active participants during online classes. With comparatively lesser distractions and comfortable learning environments e-learning has opened a plethora of benefits.  

Is homeschooling challenging for parents?

There is no denying the fact that parents make a valuable contribution to the early developmental years of a child’s life. Due to the current situation with homeschooling in full swing parents are more involved in a child’s curriculum and learning process than before. However, not everything is rosy in this scenario especially for working parents whose kids are staying back home. Maintaining a balance between parental guidance, and supervision of learning while keeping the focus on work becomes cumbersome for parents.  

According to market research, 80% of parents prefer homeschooling through virtual learning due to the pandemic situation despite the challenges it brings and 64% of students are completely dependent upon video conferences to connect with teachers. Apart from engaging in online activities, it is difficult to keep young children especially those from elementary schools focused and engrossed with the syllabus.
Establishing a strict routine and abiding by it can be difficult while staying back home.

What is more worrying is the load of homework that homeschooling bestows upon parents. Online homework assignments can be challenging for working parents who cannot pay enough attention to the virtual learning class. Explaining concepts that are part of the curriculum entails homework on the part of parents too which can become a nightmare during busy schedules. 

Needless to say, despite all the challenges, all of us are thriving with the endeavor to learn. Hence, we can quote, “When the atmosphere encourages learning, the learning is inevitable.” – Elizabeth Foss.