The Effect of Covid-19 Pandemic on Higher Education: Students’ Perspective

Abstract

Covid-19 is the latest crisis that happened worldwide. Since the onset of this crisis, many higher education and other institutions have faced challenges. With its continuing effect to the public, this study aims to explain student's perceptions and experiences related to the pandemic. In the study, data was achieved after analyzing the reports of 377 undergraduate students. Data were collected using an online questionnaire describing their perceptions and experiences. Consequently, it was found that most students still have positive feedback to the transition to online learning and they were most satisfied with the support provided by teaching staff. Students were mainly concerned about matters to do with their future career and studies. The findings also show thatthe pandemic incited various emotions and opinions from students. This includes the experience of anxiety and other distress, the restrictions of socializing, its negative effect on the learning process of the students, and the disruptions it is causing on the livelihood of people. On the lighter side, the pandemic was able to make the students recognize the importance of human communion and the importance of recognizing their responsibilities. Policymakers in higher education may benefit from these findings while formulating recommendations and strategies to support students during this time