Exploring the Impact of COVID-19 on Education: Creative Solutions to Real Challenges

Background/purpose. The paper explores the impact of COVID-19 on education and focuses on challenges to the educational system and their solutions. COVID-19, which allegedly originated in Wuhan, China, had a devastating impact on human endeavours, the economy, and health. The education sector was not spared either. Schools were abruptly closed, and teaching and learning were suspended, which had far-reaching consequences for the economy and society.

Materials/methods. Grounded in the Social Cognitive Theory (SCT), the study adopted a literature review, otherwise known as a ‘meta-study ’.

Results. The study’s findings reveal that the havoc wreaked by COVID-19 disrupted education and posed challenges to access to teaching and educational facilities, especially for rural students and the vulnerable in society. Traditional methods of face-to-face teaching became a thing of the past, and classrooms were borderless. Since the COVID-19 crisis and unparalleled educational disruption were far from over, virtual learning took centre stage and curricula were completed. Virtual teaching was being nurtured and was putting down its roots. Challenges such as network issues, frequent power supply interruptions, high data costs, and poor digital skills hindered access to e-lessons. I argue that, irrespective of challenges, virtual learning took place and curricula were completed. I recommend massive global infrastructure development so that teaching can take place anywhere and at any time, to address classroom limitations in the event of future pandemic outbreaks.

Conclusion. Teachers and students must undergo training to be abreast of digital skills for effective use of online tools.

Keywords: Borderless classroom, COVID-19, face-to-face, disruption, teaching, learning.

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