Skip to content

Pandemic Pedagogy

Share on facebook
Facebook
Share on twitter
Twitter
Share on linkedin
LinkedIn

It is fair to say that our perceptions of what is the norm have changed drastically since 2020. Simple things like going to the shops became a daunting task, predetermined by the mask you had to wear, the amount of sanitizer you carried with you, the application of alcohol rub as soon as you entered, and being watched by eagle-eyed supervisors to ensure social distancing was in place. Gone were air-kisses or hugs when you met a friend, substituted by a cursory elbow thump, if that. 

Victoria Vella – Image courtesy of Marika Montebello from Picturesque

Thankfully, we finally seem to be staggering towards a light at the end of the tunnel. This is not to say that the pandemic is over, more that as symptoms and deaths have subsided, the acceptance that this is just another thing we have to live with has emerged.

It may be controversial to say, but the silver lining — for Malta especially — has been to push different generations and demographics into a more digital world, from companies realising that ‘remote working’ is a viable option without reducing productivity, to my 92-year-old grandmother in the UK learning to use a smart phone to keep in touch with family here in Malta. 

We had to change how we did everyday things. As a society, we were not ready for all the changes that ensued, but looking back, I am amazed that we have come as far as we have in a relatively short span of time. If anything, the pandemic has brought about a more flexible structure when working, shopping, and also learning. 

The education/training landscape has been one of the most drastically hit by the changes brought about by the pandemic. Although distance learning has been around for a very long time, the idea of remote learning on a national front was not popular — nor even available in most cases. There are various reasons for this stemming from people’s nature to be reticent to change, difficulty adapting to new technologies, or the outdated idea that people need someone breathing down their neck to ensure good work or good marks in courses. As many of us know, this is not the case, and often giving people the freedom to work or study in their own time can yield better results. Almost overnight, video conferencing software and platforms transformed how courses and training were being given, and this has given people who otherwise would not have chosen a digital path the chance to explore new opportunities and further their knowledge through online courses and life-long learning opportunities.

Nowadays, online courses and blended/hybrid learning have become the norm for many — and not just the tech-savvy. We are able to connect with people, continue studies, and provide life-long learning opportunities to many who may not have had the opportunity before due to economic, social, and transportation issues. Malta University Consulting, for example, offers a number of courses, ranging from understanding autism to business classes, to facilitate personal and professional growth.

Even though we’re still coming to terms with the new norm, our education, whether it’s online, in-person, or hybrid, remains as important as ever. 

Victoria Vella is a Consulting and Training Executive with Malta University Consulting 

For more information, visit our website Courses – MUC (maltaconsulting.mt), or contact us on trainingservices@muhc.com.mt CALL FOR ACADEMICS: Should you wish to become a trainer and partner with MUC to deliver courses in your chosen expertise, kindly contact Victoria on trainingservices@muhc.com.mt

Author

More to Explore

Preserving the Past: UM Library’s Digitisation of Centuries-old Pamphlets

The University of Malta’s Library has diligently digitised historical pamphlets, some dating as far back as the 1600s, allowing students and researchers to explore battles, cultural shifts, and more through primary sources. THINK speaks with library manager Antida Mizzi to explore the commitment to safeguarding history, making it accessible for researchers and scholars dedicated to unearthing the stories that define us.

Fostering Creativity and Community: The ART Connect Project at the University of Malta Library

Discover how the University of Malta Library is not just a repository of knowledge, but a hub of creativity and collaboration. The ART Connect Project infuses art into this academic space, bringing vibrancy and engagement to its community. In this article, delve into the initiative’s aspirations, the fostering of a holistic environment, and the transformative power of artistic expression within the university setting.

Meeting Challenges Halfway at the Malta Book Festival 2023

Delve into Malta’s burgeoning book scene, boasting 58 publishing entities and a wealth of authors. Uncover the challenges and endeavours championed by the National Book Council. Join us at the Malta Book Festival from October 18-22 at MFCC, Ta’ Qali, for an exciting literary voyage.

Comments are closed for this article!