A study of parent’s opinion on online teaching in Delhi-NCR schools

Abstract

Objectives: To explore the challenges parents face when their children study online. Their views and opinions on the efficacy of the online learning program and the attributes of virtual classes are sought in the study. Methods: A survey study was conducted with an online questionnaire administered to more than 2000 parents of pre primary and primary classes from ten public schools of Delhi National Capital Region. Findings: More than 75% of the parents surveyed are satisfied with the online classes taking place and believed that it is working for them. 41% of the parents are of the opinion that teaching methodology is the most important factor enhancing the teaching-learning process in virtual mode for the parents. 29% of the parents believe that personalised attention given to the children can improve the system. These findings help in strengthening the process of online teaching. Novelty: In the recent months a lot of research has been happening in India on the feasibility and efficacy of the online classes owing to the closure of the school after the outbreak of the pandemic. However, most of this research does not take into account the digital divide the parents face. The current study addresses this gap and looks at the online teaching-learning process from the parents’ point of view, which can assist the policy makers. Keywords: Online teaching; parent’s opinion; parental intervention; primary classes