Higher Education during the Covid-19 pandemic: a case study in the preschool and primary teacher training degrees

ABSTRACT

The paper examines the capacity to adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic between 19-20 and 20-21 course in the case of education studies at FPCEE Blanquerna (Ramon Llull University). The divergent opinions collected in reports, media and literature regarding the University response to the pandemic motivate this work. The purpose is to identify the weaknesses, strengths, threats and opportunities in this particular case, based on the assumption that there has been a good adaptation. Thus, the paper verifies this perception as well as identifies practical implications for this educational project and, if possible, for other centers or university degrees. On the one hand, four discussion groups are held, with a total of 33 participants, following the SWOT analysis (Weaknesses, Threats, Strengths and Opportunities). On the other hand, a questionnaire has been designed collecting the dimensions of institution/organization, teaching staff, methodology and students, with a total of 408 students participation. The results show how the Faculty quickly adapted to the situation with some exceptions regarding a certain masterfulness and a greater academic load on the students. In relation to emotional fatigue, the results confirm this impact despite the fact that the levels of motivation for the studies carried out are maintained. Therefore, practical implications are raised related to the increase of formative evaluation formulas, the diversification of online teaching methodologies and sometimes maintaining the virtual format beyond the pandemic.