Factors Impacting Academic Performance
Factors Impacting Academic Performance
The new normal has significantly affected students' educational experiences by reducing opportunities for social interaction and increasing learning stress. Traditional classroom settings allowed students to socialize with peers, which made learning more manageable and less stressful. However, online classes have removed this social benefit, leaving students to cope with assignments in isolation. This has exacerbated stress levels and has been reported to cause anxiety and depression among students.
The increases in tuition fees and reductions in government subsidies have negatively impacted students' academic performance and prospects. Families' benefits have been declining, making it difficult for students to afford education without taking out loans. This financial strain is compounded by the insecurity of non-standard job roles, affecting students' ability to maintain consistent income post-graduation. Consequently, the number of working students has increased, which can detract from study time and affect academic performance .
Students in fields like Food and Beverage Services face unique challenges such as the shortage of funds to purchase necessary supplies or ingredients for practical training. Moreover, poor and unsuitable techniques of instruction during remote learning exacerbate these issues. The hands-on nature of this field makes it difficult to replicate the learning environment online, leading to significant learning disruptions .
For students who continue their education after working during senior high school, the experience often has favorable effects as it helps save money for college, while those who do not continue their education may face negative impacts on educational aspirations and subsequent employment. This indicates that the benefits of work experience during senior high school are contingent on students' further educational pursuits. The work experience can provide insights and financial resources beneficial for those continuing to higher education .
Part-time jobs do not significantly impact academic achievements, whereas full-time jobs have a negative impact as they require more time and effort that could otherwise be spent on academics. Studies have shown that high work intensity, such as full-time employment, detracts from academic focus, whereas part-time jobs are more manageable and do not show the same detrimental effects. This is due to the workload balance that part-time employment allows, letting students manage both their study and employment responsibilities during the pandemic .
The COVID-19 lockdown necessitated a shift from traditional in-person teaching to online learning, which altered teaching and learning processes significantly. Challenges that emerged from this transition include increased student anxiety and depression, difficulties adjusting to new teaching methods without simulations or practices, and the struggle to maintain focus in distracting home environments. Poor Internet service and the absence of a structured learning environment also contributed to diminished learning experiences .
Studies about the correlation between students' study habits and academic achievement during the COVID-19 pandemic emphasize the importance of time management, learning skills, and study skills. These factors significantly contribute to better academic outcomes. Students who effectively manage their time and employ efficient learning techniques tend to perform better academically despite the challenges posed by remote learning .
The transition to online learning platforms has highlighted existing inequalities within the education system, as students from marginalized or remote areas often lack access to stable Internet connections and appropriate learning environments. This discrepancy results in less effective learning for these students compared to those from more privileged backgrounds, exacerbating educational disparities. The increased reliance on technology has further disadvantaged these groups, as they may lack the necessary resources or support to fully benefit from online education .
The new normal poses significant mental health challenges for working students, as part-time employment over a long period can lead to mental health issues such as stress and anxiety. These conditions can adversely affect their academic performance, making it difficult to balance work and study. The lack of time and energy for academic pursuits due to work commitments may lead to decreased focus, lower grades, and ultimately hinder the students' educational achievements .
Government education departments have responded to the challenges of remote learning by implementing exceptional holidays to prepare for distance learning, utilizing national television and social media platforms for educational purposes, and adapting curricula to fit online formats. These actions aimed to mitigate the disruption caused by the pandemic and maintain educational continuity despite the closure of physical schools .