Factors Affecting Children’s Learning During COVID-19

Abstract

In spring 2020, an estimated 55.1 million children in the United States experienced school closures related to COVID-19 (Education Week, 2020). As a result of these closures, 93% of families reported their children’s schools transitioned to virtual learning. (U.S. Census, 2021). Research has found significant gaps in students’ learning because of these COVID-19 pandemic school closures. This chapter describes the educational areas most negatively impacted by the COVID-19 school closures as identified by families and schools. The negative impacts were especially significant for students of color, families from near or below the poverty line, and students with disabilities. As discussed below, students’ learning during COVID-19 was most impacted by lack of internet/technology, quality of and frequency of engagement in instruction, and attendance at virtual learning sessions. The chapter concludes with recommendations for decreasing the learning gaps left in the wake of the COVID-19 school closures.