The new norm in 2020, however, has now spilled over to 2021, as working parents struggle to figure out just how best to manage a full-time job while ensuring their children do not miss out on education.
The struggle is real, and here are some issues facing students, teachers and parents.
WHAT ARE THE ISSUES?
No gadgets / not enough gadgets
The past year, we saw parents sharing photos and videos of their children, seemingly well prepared in front of the computer, laptops, tablets, even smartphones for their online studies. But do spare a thought for families who are struggling to provide sufficient and well-equipped gadgets for their children to study online.
Poor internet connection
An unstable or subpar internet connection leads to interruption during learning, causing distraction among students. Also, remember Veveonah Mosibin?
The university student, who had to climb a tree in Sabah to get a better internet connection to sit for her exams, underscored the persistent problem of slow and lacking internet connectivity, and how it continues to plague students, particularly those in rural and remote areas.
Parents: Balancing responsibilities, work and time management
Working from home has its perks. Parents get to stay closer with their children.
However, working from home has also led to the blurring of lines between work and family. A mother shared her experience: It’s almost impossible to separate work and home responsibilities, especially when kids now need help with their own online classes. “Mummy, I can’t open the link the teacher gave us”, “I don’t understand what the teacher said”, “I need colour pencils,” - requiring attention from parents who are also struggling to focus on their work. What about parents who are not tech-savvy? Or young students who are just learning to use a gadget?
Not enough homework vs too much homework
This debate has been ongoing since online classes were introduced. When less homework is given, teachers are seen to be not doing enough, and when more homework is given, it becomes a burden for parents. Where do we meet halfway here?
WHAT NOW?
The pandemic has accelerated our adoption of online and remote learning. However, the challenges of providing every child quality access to online education remains a challenge. The question is, how will this affect our children in the long term?
Recently, the National Union of the Teaching Profession (NUTP) secretary-general Harry Tan Huat Hock suggested that the government give emphasis on efforts to provide reliable Internet access and digital devices for students.
"The government can also provide a 'Tax Holiday' and tax exemption for parents to purchase devices for their children," he said.
National Association of Parents and Teachers Association (PIBGN) president, Datuk Mohamad Ali Hassan suggested the setting up of a PdPR reference centre in every state education department (JPN) and district education office (PPD).
"It can serve as a one-stop centre to address any problems and challenges faced by teachers and students," he said adding all parties should also give their full commitment to ensure all students would have an effective learning experience.
Meanwhile, the struggle faced by working parents is also undeniable. Anxious parents not only worry about their careers, they also worry about the long-term effects the lack of social interaction in school will have on their children.
Here are some ways parents can cope during this time of uncertainty.
TIME MANAGEMENT IS KEY. HERE ARE SOME TIPS:
Utilise all learning mediums available:
- The government is now offering classes via ‘TV Pendidikan’. It can be watched for free through channel 110 MyFreeview TV, channel 146 on ASTRO and ASTRO NJOI and at https://myklik.rtm.gov.my and ASTRO TUTOR TV on Channels 601 and 603.
- Sophia.my - a free learning platform introduced by Former Minister of Education, Dr Maszlee Malik as an initiative to address the problem of the missing generation due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
It might be a good idea to limit the use of the devices until the schoolwork is done. The surrounding environment can be a big distraction, too. Having favourite toys around can make it harder for the kid to focus. Consider setting up a quiet, clutter-free workspace that is comfortable for your child.
Prepare a schedule and be flexible
Having a consistent schedule for schoolwork will allow parents to plan the workday and let students more easily transition in and out of school time. Try to build as much structure and consistency as possible, setting times for meals, schoolwork and other activities. At the same time allow for flexibility depending on tasks and the timing.
Provide positive feedback
Many children miss receiving reinforcement and reassurance from teachers. Building a reward system can help maintain motivation.
Help kids stay in touch with their friends
Organising a daily video chat with his/her friend or a group of peers is helpful and can have a positive effect on children. School discussion boards, real-time classroom conversations and email communication are other ways your child can interact with peers. If a child is struggling with a task and you aren’t there to help, encourage your child to try these methods to get support.
Reach out to your child’s teacher
Being proactive is essential if your child is struggling in school. If a kid has difficulties with a task on deadline and you can work with the child only during the weekends, the first thing to do is to get in touch with the teacher.
Kids with special needs
Parents need to do is to meet with teachers and discuss what strategies and tools the school can put into place to support students in virtual learning. Work with your child’s teachers to identify and remove any learning barriers.
