Journal of Education & Social Policy

Digital Divide in India: Access to Online Learning for School Teachers and Students During COVID-19
Soyhunlo Sebu, Ph.D

Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on every aspect of human life. The closure of schools and the shifting of face-to-face teaching and learning methods to the new normal (remote teaching and learning) was the most challenging time for teachers and students. This research article aims to analyze the repercussions of the pandemic on teaching and learning, examining the experiences, prospects, and readiness of teachers, and students. The study observed formidable challenges and issues faced by the teachers and students in transitioning to remote teaching and learning mainly due to lack of access to technology, limited internet facilities, geographical remoteness, and insufficient technology skills among the teachers and students. The research underscores the urgent necessity of adopting technology and incorporating it into the teaching and learning process. It emphasizes the vital need for encouraging and facilitating teacher training, particularly in the realm of technology-integrated teaching and learning, to enhance preparedness for future challenges.

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