The novel coronavirus (Covid-19) that has spread like wildfire is causing havoc in the lives of one and all. As businesses are taking a harsh economic hit, daily life has been disrupted and its ill-effects have permeated to all sections of society. Due to its highly contagious nature government advisories issued have asked people to refrain from mass gatherings or group meetings. Therefore, it was only natural for schools, colleges and universities to be shut down for a period of 2 weeks. This period could be extended depending on how the situation develops, given that India is at a very crucial stage in its fight against coronavirus.
But the timing for shutting down educational institutions is causing mass hysteria as examinations are being held and students do need last-minute preparation tips and assistance. In the absence of teachers and professors, students do not view coaching centers or coaching institutes as viable options either they prefer to avoid groups and remain in self-isolation. It is not just school students that are in a dilemma but also students preparing for competitive exams like JEE Main & Advanced, CLAT, and NEET that are scheduled to be held in April and May. This is the time when the shutdowns and lockdowns are scheduled to be lifted. But the time in between is precious as this is when students have to prepare. Lack of quality guidance can amplify last-minute exam jitters and leave students feeling helpless. However, not everything is dark as edtech platforms have scrambled to provide a ray of hope. Globally or nationally, edtech platforms are not letting this virus defeat students’ morale or cause them to be unprepared.
Edutech companies prioritize the safety of students as their primary concern and they possess the gift of technology in their arsenal against this deadly virus. Students can resort to using one of the many credible edutech platforms to keep themselves on track with their preparations. Students have a plethora of options to choose from as there are edtech companies that prepare students for their exams via their webinars and concept videos. Still, there are other edtech platforms like GuruQ that facilitates better learning by providing students personalized online tutoring where an actual tutor clears doubts and answers the individual queries of students after teaching them a particular lesson.
In a spirit of humanity, edtech platforms have decided to keep rates low or even offer free access during these trying times. They do not want students’ academic lives to get hampered and are pulling out all stops to ensure that it doesn’t. Also when looked at from an economic standpoint, these edtech platforms are ensuring that tutors can retain their means of livelihood. Many sectors are suffering heavy losses due to this global pandemic and have no option but to resort to cost-cutting by firing staff. At least online tutors do not have to face such a similar adverse outcome caused by the highly transmissible virus. Even tutors at coaching centers who might be bearing the brunt of a low footfall due to this deadly disease, can sign up on the edtech platforms and continue to earn lucrative sums of money during these difficult times.
It’s not just edtech platforms, but also some renowned universities and colleges that have resorted to using online tools to connect with their students. But the first challenge they face is that their tools are slow and outdated when it needs to be put to practical use. It is the expertise of edtech platforms that are helping to ensure that there is no gap in learning and exam preparation.
With uncertainty looming everywhere and the chance of an extended lockdown being imposed at any given time, edtech startups are making two-pronged efforts to provide a silver lining by resolving any dilemma students are facing as well as helping tutors maintain a steady income.
Edtech platforms were widely regarded as the future of learning but the future is here, already, and these platforms are amping up their services to overcome all adversities.
