User blog:Sylvestersteele/COVID-19 and its effects on the ducation system

Covid- 19 and its Effects on the Jamaican Education System
The COVID (Coronavirus) pandemic has affected the education system globally, causing the proximate total closure of schools, universities and colleges both locally and internationally. Covid has changed the landscape of the education system in Jamaica and worldwide. The Government of Jamaica stipulated that educational institution has to close temporarily in order to limit the spread of the virus. The closures of school impacted students, teachers and families which have influence major changes on the economy and society.

The closures of school in response to the pandemic have highlighted various social and economic issues in Jamaica for instance the accessing of online learning, and internet. The impact of closure of school was felt mostly by the disadvantaged children and their families due to the interruption of learning and the economic cause of families who weren’t working or could not work because of childcare issues.

At the initial stage of the closure of educational institution the Government recommended the use of distance learning programs and the use of online platform that teachers and, schools can use to reach learners remotely so that they can limit the disruption of learning. However, many students and families were at a disadvantage in utilizing these tools because of economic issues such as accessing, and the provision of internet service. The economic cost of providing or even accessing internet was too costly for many families who are from a low social economic background as a result most students could not participate in digital learning. Beside, a lot of students rely critically on their teachers for guidance which help in school performance and maintaining relationship this is true for students of disadvantaged background who do not have the parental support in order for them to learn on their own. Moreover, the lack of access to technology or fast reliable internet access prevented most students in rural areas from utilizing the digital learning platforms which has interrupted their ability to learn.

Furthermore, the closure of school has put a strain on parents and guardians in the provision of childcare and the managing of distant learning while children are out of school. Parent who don’t have any option and are working  and cannot provide childcare for their child/children  leave them on their own which lead to other issues in society. Even with online learning parents need to assist younger children in navigating school on the computer. Beside, children who are unsupervised are reluctant in completing or even participating in digital learning as a result most teachers are leave with the task of supervising student remotely in ensuring that they are learning.