Exploring the Educational Transitions to Estimate Learning Loss Caused by Pandemic at Early Grades: Insights from Teachers

Abstract

The education sector across the country was severely affected by the Covid-19
pandemic. Despite implementing various initiatives to sustain the teaching and
learning process, learners were struggling to keep up with acquiring the necessary
knowledge and skills. This research investigated the learning loss of students caused by
school transitions during the pandemic. The study employed a qualitative research
design and developed an interview protocol. Primary school teachers were involved in
this research to collect data. Thematic analysis was utilized to interpret the collected
data. The findings of the study indicated that a significant number of participants had
unsatisfactory teaching experiences due to the suspension of the teaching and learning
processes resulting from school closures and resource limitations. The respondents
expressed that the performance of students declined and they appeared less engaged;
foundational subjects were badly affected; and consequently, students inclined to
forget the basics of every subject. In terms of government initiatives, apart from
establishing a TV channel for broadcasting study material during the pandemic, no
further measures were taken to address the learning loss experienced by students.