Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly disrupted educational systems worldwide, with school closures being a common response to mitigate the spread of the virus. In Vietnam, these closures have had profound impacts on both students and their families, as highlighted in the research article "Negative impact from school closures on children and parents in Vietnam during COVID-19." This blog explores the key findings of the research and offers insights for practitioners seeking to improve their skills in managing the challenges posed by such disruptions.
The Impact of School Closures
Vietnam experienced two major school closure periods during the pandemic, which forced a rapid transition to online learning. However, this shift was marred by several challenges:
- Inadequate Infrastructure: Many schools lacked the necessary digital technology infrastructure, particularly in remote areas, which hindered effective distance learning.
- Teacher Preparedness: Despite training workshops, teachers often felt overwhelmed and underprepared to manage online classes, leading to decreased teacher-student interaction.
- Socioeconomic Disparities: Children from low socioeconomic backgrounds faced greater difficulties due to limited access to technology and increased stress from financial concerns.
Consequences for Students and Families
The research highlights several negative outcomes resulting from prolonged school closures:
- Academic Performance: Primary school students, in particular, experienced a decline in academic performance due to challenges in self-study and lack of personal tutoring.
- Mental Health: The prevalence of psychological distress increased, with children experiencing feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression.
- Nutritional Security: Families faced limited access to nutritious food, exacerbating the challenges for socioeconomically disadvantaged children.
Implications for Practitioners
For practitioners in the field of education and special education, the findings of this research underscore the need for targeted interventions and strategies to support students and families during and after school closures. Here are some recommendations:
- Enhance Digital Infrastructure: Advocate for improved digital infrastructure in schools, particularly in remote areas, to ensure equitable access to online learning.
- Teacher Training and Support: Provide ongoing professional development for teachers to build confidence and competence in managing online and hybrid classrooms.
- Mental Health Support: Implement programs to support the mental health and well-being of students, addressing issues of isolation and anxiety.
- Parental Engagement: Encourage parental involvement in children's education and provide resources to help parents support their children's learning at home.
Encouraging Further Research
The research highlights the need for further studies to fully understand the long-term effects of school closures on academic performance and family well-being. Practitioners are encouraged to engage in or support research initiatives that explore these impacts in different contexts and develop evidence-based strategies to mitigate negative outcomes.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Negative impact from school closures on children and parents in Vietnam during COVID-19.
