Education during Pandemic: A Study from a Students’ Perspective in India

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in lockdowns across the world in many sectors, including education. In this paper, we conduct a primary survey among undergraduate students, particularly the graduating seniors, across India on their perceptions about online education in the context of COVID-19 crisis. Student's sentiments on conducting exams during the pandemic was modelled on 15 independent variables characterising social sensitivity, infrastructure, psychological implications and future uncertainties. The results of the exercise show that the mindset of students, parents’ willingness and the perception of safety factor of public transport are some of the most influencing variables affecting the sentiments of students. Statistical significance is also observed for students with a lack of experience in giving online examinations and those with poor socioeconomic status. Significant number of students are also expected to feel unfair if the exams were not conducted.

Keywords: Coronavirus, Education, India, Online examination, Students, Learning

JEL Classification: I21, I23, I24, I25, I26, I28