An Interim Evaluation of Online Teaching for Senior Secondary Students Under COVID19 Lockdown

ABSTRACT

COVID19 outbreak took the school community by surprise, as no one was prepared for what has already been delivered and achieved in the last 4 months in the United Arab Emirates (UAE);and around the world alike. It was comparatively easier for teachers and students to connect with each other in UAE, with over 98% of the population connected to high quality internet. This study is an attempt to evaluate the online experience of both teachers and the students;during the emergency switch amid COVID19 lockdown;compared to the traditional physical classes. A quantitative rating survey was used to collect data from teachers and students of only current Grade XII at 3 private schools delivering the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) curriculum in the UAE. A total of 110 subjects responded and registered their feedback. The study found that while both teachers and students rated the overall physical class experience substantially higher than online. The online teaching successfully delivered and achieved the core academic objectives. Teachers rated online classes rated marginally higher than students, indicating a high level of commitment and readiness to learn and adapt. Though there was a clear concern on students’ engagement during online classes and their physical wellbeing during the period.