The Challenges of eLearning during COVID-19 Pandemic among Primary-Age Children: A Rapid Review of Evidence
Keywords:
Online Learning, Primary-Age Children, School Closure, Covid-19 Pandemic, Rapid Review Method.Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the education system globally with the distinctive rise of online learning, whereby teaching and learning is undertaken on digital platforms remotely. This review paper aims to explore the challenges of online and remote learning among primary-age children during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a rapid review method, four online journal databases (i.e., Web of Science, SAGE Journals Online, ScienceDirect and Scopus) were searched for relevant articles published between 2019 and 2021. The initial search identified 1623 articles. Through an eligibility criteria screening and check, a total 31 articles were selected. Findings of the review identified four main challenges of online learning during the pandemic, including the difficulties in maintaining communication and engagement, inaccessibility to technology, inadequate support for online learning, and issues related to mental health conditions and the readiness for online learning. This review has implications for the role of educational system and policymakers to improve programs and solutions for online and remote learning among primary-age children.
