Secondary students' educational experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative evidence synthesis
Abstract
The primary purpose of this qualitative evidence synthesis was to examine the literature pertaining to the educational experiences of secondary students, globally, during the COVID-19 pandemic. A secondary purpose was to explore the impact of these experiences on students’ psychosocial wellbeing. Database searches resulted in the inclusion of 41 studies. Thomas and Harden’s (2008) thematic synthesis approach was used, which revealed five descriptive themes (Challenging Online Learning Experiences, Benefits of Online Learning, Complexities Associated with Education-Related Disruptions and Transitions, Social Connections and Support, Emerging Educational Needs and Areas of Improvement) and 20 subthemes. Three analytical themes were also identified (Student Resilience and Adaptability Through Crisis, The Digital Divide and Educational Inequality, Reimagining the Future of Education). Findings revealed that students experienced both challenges and benefits associated with remote learning; they also highlight the need for effective, inclusive, and accessible educational practices that can be adopted now and in the future.