Chapter 1

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Introduction

The outbreak of COVID-19 in early 2020 disrupted the entire world in ways that

were previously unimaginable. The pandemic forced people to stay indoors, businesses to

shut down, and countries to impose lockdowns and travel restrictions. In the midst of all

this chaos, schools and universities were also forced to make a significant change. As

traditional classroom teaching was no longer feasible due to the risk of spreading the

virus, students had to transition to new normal learning.

New normal learning is a method of studying wherein students are restricted to

attend school. It refers to a kind of education where learning occurs between the learners

and teachers who are geographically distant from each other. This method of studying

was primarily implemented to avoid face-to-face interaction between the learners and the

teachers.

While the transition to new normal was necessary for safety reasons, it hasn't been

an easy adjustment for many students. One of the biggest struggles students face is the

lack of structure and routine that traditional in-person classes provide. Without set

schedules and designated class times, it can be challenging for students to stay motivated

and focused. Additionally, new normal learning can feel isolating and disconnected, as

students are no longer interacting with their peers and teachers in the same way.

Technical difficulties and a lack of access to reliable technology and internet can also be
a significant barrier for some students. In conclusion, the transition to online learning has

brought about significant challenges for students.

As the world gradually recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic, schools and

universities are beginning to reopen for face-to-face learning. While this is a welcome

development, it can be challenging for students who have become accustomed to new

normal learning. After months of attending classes from the comfort of their own homes,

many students may find it difficult to readjust to the structure and social interaction of in-

person classes. Additionally, some students may have developed habits or routines that

are not compatible with face-to-face learning, such as staying up late and sleeping in. The

transition can also be stressful for students who have concerns about their safety or that

of their loved ones. It is essential to acknowledge that readjusting to in-person learning

may take time, and each student may have unique needs and challenges.

While the transition to online learning was necessary, it has resulted in significant

changes in the learning environment, which has affected students' academic performance,

motivation, and mental health. And as schools reopen for face-to-face learning, it is

essential to understand the challenges students face during the transition to face-to-face

learning. This study aims to explore the struggles of students during the transition from

new normal or face-to-face learning.

The mentioned predicaments above can be seen and observed in an actual

experience of a student. Thus this study is necessary to understand the struggles students

face during this transition and to develop appropriate support mechanisms to ensure their

success. Understanding the challenges students face is essential in providing effective and

tailored support to aid students' adjustment. This study's findings will inform educational
institutions on how to adapt to the post-COVID-19 era and design appropriate

interventions that will enable students to achieve academic success in the face of the new

normal of learning. Ultimately, the reason why the researcher persists to conduct this

study is to improve the students' educational experiences and contribute to the

development of a more inclusive and supportive educational environment.

Significance of the Study

The results of the study will be great benefit to the following:

Students. A seamless transition to face-to-face or new normal learning would be highly

advantageous for students since it would allow them to complete their education without

interruption and with little stress. Additionally, they would be able to get the resources

and help they need to succeed academically.

Teachers and instructors. In addition to students, teachers and instructors would gain

from a seamless transition since they would be freed up to concentrate on instructing and

promoting learning rather than addressing technical difficulties or student transition

difficulties. They would also be able to get the resources and support they need to help

with their teaching and instruction.

Educational institutions. A smooth transition would benefit educational institutions

since it would improve their credibility and reputation for giving students a high-quality

education and support. Additionally, it would guarantee that they can keep giving their

students the education and services they need, which is crucial for their survival and

development.
Parents and guardians. A seamless transition would also assist students' parents and

legal guardians, who would feel more assured in the educational system and their kids'

capacity to complete their education without hindrance or trouble.

Statement of the Problem

This study aims to explore the struggles of students during the transition from new

normal or face-to-face learning.

Specially, the study sought answers to the following problems:

1. What are the struggles encountered by students transitioning to new normal learning

2. What are the struggles students encountered transitioning back to face-to-face

learning

3. What recommendations can be made to address the struggles identified in the study

Theoretical Framework

The study is anchored from a journal article where the students were surveyed

about their perceptions of online learning before and after the transition to online learning

(Lemay, Bazelais, & Doleck, 2021). In this journal article it was proven that students is

indeed having struggle in online learning with the reports of increased stress, anxiety, and

difficulties in breathing. The relevance of this study and this journal article is that both

strive to identify the struggles of students into transitioning towards online learning or

new normal learning.

References

Lemay, D., Bazelais, P., and Doleck, T. (2021). 'Transition to online learning during the

COVID-19 pandemic.' Computers in Human Behavior Reports, 4 pp. 100130.