How COVID-19 has Impacted the Education Sector

In response to the COVID-19 global pandemic, governments all around the world have called for social distancing measures and shut downs which have directly impacted many sectors globally, including education. As physical schools and university campuses have closed and self-isolation is recommended in many places, there is now a strong emphasis on alternatives to traditional education. 

The eruption of the global pandemic and subsequent shutdowns have highlighted many gaping holes in the education sector which previously went unnoticed. Read on to see the bigger picture of how this virus has impacted the academic world and is reshaping our view of modern education. 

Where are we now?

Social distancing has become the norm in most places around the world to prevent the spread of COVID-19. As logical and necessary as the measure is, it has halted the process of traditional face-to-face learning. If institutions remain closed for a prolonged period, traditional education may soon become obsolete. 

These shutdowns, coupled with limited learning opportunities in the typical home, can have a catastrophic impact on a student’s growth. Without access to  proper learning outlets, students could have difficulties developing the skills they need to land a career later on. Efforts to make classroom education accessible to all has taken a back seat in these complicated times. It’s not all negative, however, as educational needs are being met through online learning.  

Education in the Digital Age

Ushered in years ago, the digital age has transformed many major sectors including modern education. The present situation demonstrates that we all need to adapt quickly to changes and focus on enhancing online education. Academic institutions that have clung to the outdated classroom approach are now paying for their resistance to online learning. A major impact of COVID-19 is that it has become an inadvertent catalyst to create a new educational structure. 

In a relatively short period of time, many new virtual schools have cropped up. Unfortunately, they are missing the expertise and sophistication with which an online education requires. While the world prepares to usher in another technological revolution in the form of 5G, this sector has remained shockingly backward. If years ago we had taken the steps that are now happening suddenly, then we could now have a smoother transfer to online platforms. 

The positive impacts

Institutions who followed the mantra of ‘learning anywhere, anytime’ could more easily adapt to the shut downs through online courses and classrooms. Many traditional classrooms were also using technology to offer virtual reality experiences and live broadcasts to students. These methods were designed to help students adapt to a more digitised way of learning. In the longer run, these students can easily use advanced tools in the business world and will not be hindered by new technology. 

Another unique development is the collaboration of various stakeholders, as far as online education growth is concerned. This includes everyone from educational professionals to telecom network operators seamlessly working together to make this venue functional for all. While the provision is temporary and limited to a crisis situation, it can surely have a strong impact on the future of education. 

The online learning platforms that have now become extremely relevant play a huge role in ensuring that education reaches students all across the globe. It can propel a further need for wider mediums of connectivity where brilliant teachers and education professionals can reach every student. 

Moving forward

We are facing an unpredictable situation that can only be handled through remaining adaptable, employing analytical and creative thinking, and making decisions carefully and in an informed manner. Implementing innovative methods is the best way to stay a step ahead in determining and overcoming risks. Such expertise as part of the educational curriculum can help students create a better future, where crises are managed thoughtfully and strategically.  

You can continue your educational journey and gain critical professional skills through the online courses provided by London School of Business and Finance. These programmes cover several essential sectors of the business world and are designed to provide relevant and up-to-date industry knowledge. Click on the link to learn more about studying online with London School of Business and Finance!