PW invited parents of Mount Litera Zee School, Amritsar to share their views on the effectiveness of online learning

“The unprecedented crisis triggered by the global Covid-19 pandemic outbreak has shaken the entire world, forcing mass closure of schools and colleges. When my 13-year-old daughter Mannat was first introduced to online classes in early April, I was quite skeptical. However given the excellent school and faculty support, I can confidently say online teaching-learning has been as effective as traditional face-to-face learning. It has enabled Mannat to dive deep into the world of technology and enhance critical 21st-century life skills. She is now devoting substantial time to self-study than ever before.” — Nidhi Samra, purchase director, Jackson Laboratories Pvt. Ltd, Amritsar

“Online learning has dramatically reduced wastage of time and resources and kept our children continuously engaged. It is amazing to see how my class IX twin daughters — Krisha and Kaashvi — have matured by utilizing their time to learn beyond their courses. School and faculty support has been commendable. I believe 80 percent of online learning is effective, although 20 percent gets lost because of reduced personal interaction, experiential and practical learning-by-doing. For example the absence of physical activity and sports has left a huge void in my daughters’ lives as they are both good badminton players.” — Shipra Arora, homemaker

“Online classes and assessments have proved highly effective and productive for my children — Rehaan (12) and Tiara (7). The school even conducts early morning assembly and prayers, and celebrates important festivals online. What has touched me most are extra classes provided for lessons revision. I am yet to see more committed staff. Thanks to them and dynamic director Mrs. Manjot Dhillon, the school has inculcated a spirit of camaraderie and taught students team work which is a critical 21st century skill. Being an education entrepreneur myself, I can discern the growth opportunities this school has offered to students in the current Covid-19 crisis.” — Nagma Khanna, Director, Excellence Academy, Amritsar

“In these trying times, online school has enabled my son — Dhananjay (11) — to achieve academic continuity. He is learning at his own pace, reading and revising concepts as and when required. In my opinion, attending classes from the comfort of students’ homes has a positive impact on their learning and growth. Mt. Zee Litera has designed a strong curriculum and follows innovative pedagogical practices that make interactive online classes enjoyable for students.” — Priya Chouhan, homemaker

Also read: New Year resolutions and their importance