Brazilian Students’ Expectations Regarding Distance Learning and Remote Classes During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Face-to-face classes of about 1.5 billion students in 165 countries worldwide have been suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing measures. This study investigates the expectations of students from technical and higher education courses regarding the possibilities for distance learning and remote classes during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil, including the technological conditions for carrying out the school activities. The present paper analyses this issue in Brazilian students (N = 7,203) through an online survey. Three questionnaires were developed for the research context. Descriptive and multivariate statistical analyses were performed. Results highlight the students’ interest in maintaining their studies remotely, but this interest is preeminent when the students have more extensive access and conditions for using information and communication technologies (ICTs). The research highlighted that students in need of psychological assistance demonstrate more difficulty, less interest, and fewer technical conditions to conduct remote studies. Therefore, internet access conditions, difficulty getting and using ICTs, socioeconomic circumstances, demotivation, and influence of the home environment are the main factors for the remote studies’ continuity and effectiveness. As follows, it is necessary to manage psychological, social, and economic aspects to reduce educational losses and improve distance learning in the pandemic context to achieve better school results.