Students’ Perspective of the Sudden Shift from Traditional Classroom to Online Teaching Mode Under COVID-19 Situation: A Case Study

Abstract

The study aims to understand the perspectives of higher education students regarding the sudden transition from a traditional class to online mode during COVID-19 in India. A survey was conducted among 260 undergraduates and graduate students from civil and chemical engineering branches; based on 15 quantitative and 4 qualitative questions. Students appreciate the flexibility they acquire in terms of timing, necessity and interest to watch the recorded lectures. A peaceful learning environment without distraction/disturbance helps them to focus. But the unfamiliarity of the mode and the relaxed unmonitored situation are considered unfavourable. Improved technical infrastructure and better preparedness from the teacher’s side are recommended. This study articulates the students’ perspective and expectations from the online mode of teaching/learning, which would help improve the quality of the instruction process. Authors understand that this study addressing the entire instruction framework delivered live in online synchronous mode due to the unprecedented pandemic environment has not been reported previously.