Mothers’ perception of online schooling for 6-8 years old children during COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Online learning is increasing due to school closures during COVID-19 (Li & Lalani, 2020). The respected Minister of Education in Bangladesh has started to emphasize online learning and have more research on this (The Business Standard, 2020). Online schooling is a new concept in Bangladesh where mothers are playing a very important role to support the age group of 6-8 years old children. This group of children need constant supports from their mothers to continue with their online schooling, in physical absence of their teachers. The research is a qualitative one, which aimed to find the perceptions of these mothers of this particular age group of children who are participating in online schooling for long. The findings of the research were designed thematically by identifying themes and sub-themes based on the concerns that emerged during the study. Mothers' perceptions were analyzed by thematic analysis under four themes and several sub-themes. Most mothers understands the concept of online schooling, its effectiveness and importance for this special time of pandemic. However, they still face some challenges while supporting in online classes like internet disruption, managing responsibilities etc. The entire research paper has shed light in to different aspects of this online schooling. It has been seen at the end, further study is needed in larger scale. School authorities and mothers can work together for future smooth happening of online schoolings.