A Shout for Help: Students in the New Normal

The author is Teacher I at San Juan High School- Mexico Gleimell C. David

The novel coronavirus has disestablished the normal setting we used to have. The spread of pandemic causes both physical and emotional exhaustion in the entire world, especially those areas that are greatly affected. It disrupted all aspects of human life, broke our everyday routines, and the tragic loss of human life. It also affected the educational system in several countries around the globe. Some private schools lead to total closure. The government implemented strategies to cope up with the new normal setting. Despite the current situation, schools and universities have been able to start the school year 2020-2021. The education system for the new normal moves towards online training and courses. With the current situation, there was an observable reduction in the cost of transportation or allowance of students, and their flexibility through virtual learning. However, virtual learning has resulted in various challenges met by the students. Some of the struggles they are facing became the headline for news and controversial issues. Schools and universities are already prepared to face the new challenge brought by the pandemic. Students successfully enrolled in their courses. But it was obviously seen from the complaints of others, some are having a hard time adjusting to the new school system. Students are burnout because of the digitalization in education. We have different life when it comes to school and in our individual home. Not everyone has a home that is adaptable to learning. Students understand that they need to be flexible in the news set. They are trying to put an effort to cope up and understand that education shall resume despite the pandemic. One of the arising issue with regards to online class are the various feedbacks of students posted from social media, stating that online classes have drained. Some are having a hard time meeting the expected deadlines and others encountered difficulties communicating with their professors. Some find it hard to focus on their studies at home because of the distractions and the environment is not putting a motivational drive when it comes to studying. The school environment is indeed different from what we have in our home. Not all students have the access to the resources needed for an online class such as computers or gadgets and internet connection at home. For this reason, some are finding it hard to have direct communication with their teachers and classmates. Technical difficulties and poor internet connection is also a stumbling block in online classes. There are some days that lectures and examinations are interrupted because of poor internet connection. Some professors are considerate for this reason, but some are not accepting it as an excuse for the incapability of the student to take online courses and examinations. Practical activities and applications to the field of specialization of students were also set aside. Both the students, the teachers even our parents are burnout with the current situation. Virtual learning is a great challenge for everyone. W e are individually facing our own struggles this time. Understanding everyone’s situation might be a great help. Putting considerations and suggesting effective solutions for those who are having a hard time during this season might be a great help. Just because a few are doing well in class does not mean all can be able to adjust easily. This school year is not about grades. Our overall wellness is important.