Virtual learning presents several technical and psychological challenges that can hinder communication between teachers and students. On a technical level, breakdowns in internet connectivity, communication software and devices can lead to disruptions that make communication difficult.
In traditional, in-person education settings, students and teachers have ample opportunity to interact and fine-tune the overall experience. A student can stay after class to go over homework with an instructor, who may also pull a student aside to have an impromptu chat about how the class is going.
When students and teachers observe the same schedule in a school or university, literally traveling together from classroom to classroom, it can be easy to manage time over the day. Such consistency benefits both students and teachers.
It might be too much to ask students and teachers to act as if the demands of virtual schooling are the same as those of in-person learning. Many virtual schooling measures were implemented quickly, and they shift responsibility to both students and teachers when it comes to making necessary adjustments.
Online schooling exacerbates the challenges in this area. Developing patience and flexibility can be crucial online class skills for students and teachers alike as they help make the educational experience much less stressful for both.