PROBLEMS FACED BY THE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS DURING COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted most countries around the globe and there are specific reports on the impact of the pandemic on students. The present study had been conducted on 227 students of Himachal Pradesh University, who are pursuing online education during COVID-19. The main focus of the study was to find out the problems faced by Himachal Pradesh university students during covid-19 for which an Online Survey was conducted. Here 12 problems were identified through personal experience and through review of literature and Google form is designed and sent via social media like WhatsApp and email. Percentage analysis was used to analyze the data. Findings of the study showed that 23% of university students reported internet connectivity and 20% students reported lack of face to face interaction with teacher/supervisor and peers as the most serious problem they faced during COVID-19. Similarly, Practical/ Research Related Problems was reported by 13% of the participants and 9% university students found inappropriate study material/books and lack of library facility during lockdown. The prevalence of problem with online classes, time management, improper environment for study, carelessness/lack of concentration were reported by 7%, 6%, 5% and 2% respondents respectively. Other problems ranged pressure/fear/stress/frustration/ boredom/isolation for 7% of the sampled students, whereas 4% of university students reported health Issues/eye strain using computer as a most serious problem they faced during COVID-19. 2% of university students considered missed opportunities/worry about future as the most serious problem they faced during the pandemic.