Using zoom in teaching human behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic: Experiences of Australian students

Abstract

ABSTRACT The COVID-19 pandemic precipitated a sudden shift in the delivery of social work education from a bricks-and-mortar space to Zoom classes using various synchronous and asynchronous technologies. Although there is a body of evidence around the effectiveness of online teaching in social work, there remain critical questions around how best to ensure student engagement within the online environment. Thus, the current study examined students’ experience (n= 119) of transitioning to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic and their perceived efficacy of teaching online compared to face-to-face teaching via a mixed-method online survey. Although most students preferred face-to-face learning, 60% reported that online learning met their expectations. Findings revealed a mix of preferences and experiences using Zoom technology as a substitution for face-to-face learning with positive aspects (e.g., convenience, development of technology skills, and interactive features) and negative aspects (e.g., social connectedness, anxiety, and technology issues). Social work educators must understand the complexities for students in transitioning to online learning and provide adequate support and resources to meet students’ learning, technological and social needs.