SSRN Electronic Journal | 2021
The Lack of Visual Interaction in Online Classes and its Effect on the Learning Experience of Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Survey of a Bahraini Private University Students
Abstract
The COVID-19 outbreak in 2020 rendered virtual classroom management more important than ever before. Universities worldwide had no option but to opt for Online Learning in order to continue their programs. This sudden transition impacted interpersonal communication among students, and between students and their instructors. The absence of social presence and the sense of community associated with face-to-face teaching and learning challenged both instructors and students alike. A key factor was the reluctance of students to turn on their video cameras during synchronous virtual classes. This paper explores the implications of the lack of visual interaction in online classes. The study involves a survey of students at a Bahraini private University, examining a) the reasons why students elected to turn off their cameras; b) the effect this had on their learning experience and on building a sense of community; c) additional barriers created both among students and between students and instructors; and d) lessons learned and recommendations for ongoing online teaching.