Implication of online learning on the physical and mental well-being of students

Abstract

All universities and colleges worldwide had been closed due to the coronavirus outbreak. Due to the unexpected growth of online education, many teachers now conduct classes remotely using electronic devices like laptops and mobile phones to deliver instruction on digital platforms. Numerous studies have linked excessive or extended screen time to negative psychological and physiological outcomes. Stress, sadness, sleep difficulties, effects on eyesight, posture pain, hand limitations, and musculoskeletal issues are all mental and physical ailments. This research aims to examine how the COVID-19 epidemic has affected students' attendance and performance in online courses. The survey was administered online using Google forms. Undergraduates of both sexes between the ages of 18 and 25 who were enrolled in online courses for at least one month were considered for participation. In contrast, their physical health was evaluated using the Neck disability index and the Oswestry low back pain disability index. Statistical Methods Understood Karl Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to examine the relationship between the duration of an online course and feelings of anxiety, depression, and pain in the neck, shoulders, and back. Researchers showed that online learning harmed students' mental and physical health, with 57.3% of the student body reporting high levels of stress, 32.5% reporting mild depression, 48.5% reporting mild neck aches, and 41.3% reporting moderate back pain. Students' emotional and physical well-being has suffered due to the increased time they spend online for completing their work on computers and smartphones.