Use of Information and Computer-based Distance Learning Technologies during COVID-19 Active Restrictions

Abstract

Despite the reduction of restrictive measures imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the problem of organizing distance learning continues to be topical. Distance learning imposes a much greater responsibility on teachers, giving them more of a workload as learning technologies change rapidly and teachers have to actively adapt to innovations, devoting a lot of time to preparing appropriate materials to ensure the best learning outcomes. The aim of the study is to detect the use of the most effective means of organizing distance learning by teachers. The study is based on a survey of university professors who were teaching in the distance mode during 2020-2021 active administrative restrictions. Opportunities for the use of various services in the organization of distance learning are analyzed and the drawbacks and advantages of the distance learning system are highlighted. The study reveals previously unapparent issues that arose in the course of distance work in quarantine. These include, first and foremost, the high physical workload of teachers, the many technical problems that arose in the transition to distance learning, the lack of teachers’ competencies, which needs to be urgently addressed, and the complicated coordination of the learning process. Despite the problems identified, the authors argue that the system of distance learning can and must be adopted and further developed as an additional supporting direction in the organization of the learning process, which will allow educational institutions to promptly shift to distance learning as needed.