Status of E Learning at higher Education Level in West Bengal during Covid 19 Pandemic Crisis Study of Challenges and Practice

Abstract

newline ABSTRACT newline newline newline newline newlineThe COVID-19 pandemic triggered an unprecedented global health crisis that profoundly disrupted education systems worldwide. In India, and particularly in the state of West Bengal, the abrupt closure of higher educational institutions compelled an urgent and unplanned shift from conventional classroom-based teaching to e-learning platforms. This study explores the status of e-learning in higher education institutions in West Bengal during the pandemic, with special focus on the challenges encountered, adaptive practices adopted, and the socio-educational implications of this digital transition. newlineAdopting a mixed-methods research design, the study draws insights from both quantitative and qualitative data. The quantitative component involved a structured questionnaire survey administered to 384 students from the Education faculty across 23 districts of West Bengal. The qualitative component included in-depth interviews with 5 teachers and 5 administrators to gain deeper understanding of their experiences, perceptions, and institutional responses. The study employed descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, chi-square tests, and thematic analysis to examine various dimensions of the e-learning experience, such as digital readiness, infrastructural support, pedagogical innovations, student engagement, and psychological impacts. newlineFindings indicate that while e-learning emerged as an essential alternative to ensure academic continuity during the pandemic, it also highlighted and exacerbated existing inequalities in access to technology, internet connectivity, and digital skills. Students from rural areas and marginalized socio-economic backgrounds reported significant barriers in participating in online classes. Many higher education institutions lacked robust Learning Management Systems (LMS), trained faculty, and adequate resources to support digital learning effectively. Despite these challenges, several innovative and flexible practices emerged, including the use of free online platfo