Online Learning Supports in Times of Pandemic: From Parents’ Perspective

Abstract

This research aimed to identify the difficulties faced by parents in providing educational support for online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia. A quantitative approach was used, and 100 respondents participated in this study. The selection of respondents was made randomly based on several criteria. Data were collected online based on close-ended and open-ended questions related to home learning and parents' struggles. The study identified three major themes, which are personal, technical and financial challenges. All the variables based on these challenges are interrelated, have significant correlations, and mutually influence each other. The results show that the mean for variable personal challenges is at a moderate level (m=3.22), the mean for technical challenges is at a high level (m=3.77), and the mean for financial challenges is at a moderate level (m=3.55). This proves that there is a significant relationship between personal, technical and financial challenges. This study shed light on parents' struggle to provide educational support for online learning during the COVID-19 outbreak in Malaysia. To overcome it, some revisions and modifications are required, including finding ways to provide assistance from schools, teachers and the government. The implementation of new laws, regulations and suggestions may assist the parents in enhancing the perceptions that parents have in handling situations in challenging times. Other than that, there is a need to study further.