Not all have the technology to learn

HARVIN KAUR ARJAN SINGH Ipoh, Perak

I AM a 17-year-old student who was meant to sit for the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination this year but that has since changed because of the movement control order (MCO).

I am honestly not angry about it because this is a pandemic and we have to take all the precautions needed to ensure our safety.

Teachers have taken the initiative to teach using technology, for example, Google Classroom .I appreciate their efforts but it is just not convenient for many.

The justification for e-learning is that in this era of globalisation, everyone has access to technology. But this is just not true.

And, not everyone is privileged enough to have a TV at home so learning programmes too may not be entirely accessible.

We are blinded by the comforts that we enjoy and we sometimes forget about those who have to do without, especially during this pandemic.

A major issue I’ve noticed from using technology for education is the number of tasks and assignments given to the students. It is worse than being in school.

Being an SPM student, I understand the importance to continue learning and to prepare ahead. But it is not fair if this method of learning negatively impacts students and families who cannot cope because of their underprivileged backgrounds and problems like mental illness and domestic violence which are exacerbated during the MCO.

The sad thing is that there may be students who are struggling with anxiety attacks, stress, or depression, because of the pressure of having to keep up with this new way of learning.

We may not know it but there are youngsters out there who are in these vulnerable situations. They are struggling but they do not have a voice to complain. I hope something is done to help them before it is too late.