Challenges for the educational system during lockdowns: A possible new framework for teaching and learning for the near future

Abstract

The COVID-19 outbreak has heightened several challenges in higher education. In this paper, we focus on the use of technology, teaching methodologies and literacy skills. The challenges relating to the use of technology in higher education include the digital divide created by unequal access to the internet in many countries. In terms of teaching methodologies, distance learning may be faced with additional challenges in student evaluation or in the learning process itself, as in some educational disciplines face-to-face teaching is essential. Literacy skills with an emphasis on digital skills will be a part of the solution going forward if lock-downs persist. Finally, librarians are in an excellent position to engage with their communities by teaching literacy skills and digital skills in effectively using technology, which will be a much-needed part of the educational system as new teaching methodologies emerge.