DISTANCE LEARNING IN SERBIA – THE EXPERIENCE IN PRIMARY EDUCATION DURING THE COVID-19 CRISIS

Abstract

In this paper, we consider the response of the education system of the Republic of Serbia to the COVID-19 epidemiological crisis in relation to the teaching process and distance learning activities in primary schools in Serbia. We examine learning through the televised programs of Serbia’s public broadcaster and other related internet services. The aim of this research is to estimate the quality of the teaching process and distance learning in primary schools. In accordance with the purpose of the research, a questionnaire about the educational experience and practices in primary schools during the spring and autumn of 2020 was created. The questionnaire is designed for school principals, teachers, students and parents/legal guardians of students. In total, 28186 people participated in this study conducted in March and April 2021. The results show that most schools used online resources efficiently despite the initially low digital competencies of teachers and students. Limited access to the internet and digital resources, as well as difficulties in engaging students, were gradually overcome during the fall of 2020. Based on the results of this research, we formulated the most important recommendations for the organization of distance learning and its future integration in the hybrid model of teaching and learning in school practice.