IMPACT OF ONLINE CLASSES ON THE HEALTH AND WELLBEING OF YOUNG LEARNERS

Abstract

Purpose of the study: The paper discusses the impact of digital education on the health and well-being of students who have been taking online classes since the onset of COVID-19. The paper also investigates the authenticity of the media reports that have been reporting about the decline in students' health due to the extensive presence of screen time. Methodology: The study is primarily descriptive research with a qualitative and quantitative investigation of the narratives related to health issues such as impaired cognitive functions, eye problems, orthopaedic disorders, insomnia, depression, and anxiety. Google form as an online survey tool is used to collect data later compared with the media reports to conclude. Main Findings: The findings conclude that students' responses corroborate with the narratives of emergent pathological culture reported by news agencies like The Times of India and The Hindu. Application of the study: The present study will help sensitise the stakeholders of the society about the detrimental impact of online classes that might create ground for adopting immediate corrective measures for protecting the future of our nation. Novelty/ Originality of the study: The study's novelty lies in its approach to offer a comparative study of the media reports and the students' responses to cognize the severity of the evolving health issues amidst the pandemic.