During the pandemic of 2020, online education and distance learning was the main way students went to school. To attend class virtually, students would learn on different platforms such as Zoom. On Zoom, teachers would provide lessons and lectures and students would communicate through the live chat. In addition, the teacher could have students join in on class discussions by unmuting themselves or having them participate in polls; they could even bring students into a separate room called a breakout room for one-on-one conversations or group work. Some enjoyed distance learning because they didn’t have to go to bed early as well as not having to get ready in the morning. Because of this easy-going and convenient format, many students want to return to this form. However, learning from home affects students in various ways, mainly leading to bad habits. Overall, distance learning doesn’t give you the same opportunities you get from learning at school. 

One negative outcome of distance learning is the lack of structure and accountability. Since students don’t have to get ready early in the morning, they may find themselves oversleeping and missing class time. They may find themselves sleeping later than usual and being exhausted when they wake up, making them unable to focus on class. Furthermore, without the teacher directly in front of you telling you what tasks to complete, many students may find themselves not doing homework or studying for important tests. Some may even resort to cheating since they are at home.

Being social is a big part of a child’s life and distance learning is the opposite. Students are staring at a screen for hours on end and not engaging with anyone; with distance learning, they won’t have the same experience as going to school and being able to collaborate with their peers and have quality time with their friends. Adolescents need to socialize with other people as not doing so could cause loneliness leading to depression, anxiety, and stress. 

With that being said, schools should never go back to distance learning as it will hinder students academically, socially, and emotionally.