The Problem of Distance Learning During the Covid-19 Pandemic

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic has an impact on various sectors, including the education sector. Worldwide, no less than 1.38 billion students are affected. In Indonesia, around 68.8 million students are forced to study from home. This fact will certainly cause problems in the implementation of learning. The problems are related to various things, including the readiness of teachers and students to do or participate in distance learning, the readiness of learning facilities and infrastructure, or others. Various complaints lead to the problem. However, until now, accurate information based on in-depth research was not available. On that basis, this research was conducted to know the problems of distance learning in elementary schools in Banjarmasin City. This study used a quantitative descriptive method with a population of elementary school teachers in City Banjarmasin with a sample of 166 respondents, classified based on subject groups, with details of 53 adaptive teachers, 38 normative teachers, and 75 productive teachers spread across Banjar Utara District, West, Central, East, and South. The sampling technique used isproportionate stratified random sampling. The results showed that in general the teachers' perceptions of knowledge and experience related to online distance learning were still low. However, teachers have responded positively to technological developments and are aware of its potential for online-based distance learning. Besides, the ability and experience of teachers to use computers to integrate learning with online learning is in the poor category. The availability of information and communication technology facilities for the implementation of distance learning owned by teachers, students, and parents of students is also in the poor category. The lack of availability of facilities is certainly not very supportive of distance learning activities. These facilities include computers, printers, LCD projectors, cellphones, and internet connection. Based on the findings of this study, it is recommended for teachers and students to improve competency in information and communication technology that supports its integration in learning. Increasing internet access and providing online learning facilities are necessary, both by schools, teachers, and parents of students so that online learning does not experience problems.