IMPACT OF ED-TECH & E-LEARNING ON STUDENTS’ SATISFACTION DURING COVID-19

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic drastically transformed the global education system, accelerating the adoption of educational technology (EdTech) and e-learning solutions. This study explores the impact of EdTech and e-learning on students' satisfaction during the pandemic, analyzing both the benefits and challenges faced in transitioning from traditional classroom settings to digital platforms. Before COVID-19, educational technology was already gaining traction, with global investments reaching $18.66 billion in 2019 and projected to soar to $350 billion by 2025. However, the pandemic acted as a catalyst, compelling educational institutions worldwide to shift to online learning almost overnight. More than 1.2 billion students across 185 countries were affected by school closures, necessitating the adoption of virtual learning environments. This transition revealed both opportunities and obstacles for students and educators, ranging from accessibility and affordability to digital literacy and engagement. The research focuses on key variables such as e-learning content, learning quality, students’ perceptions, and overall satisfaction. A structured survey was conducted among 84 students in New Delhi to assess their experiences with digital learning platforms. The study identifies several factors influencing student satisfaction, including the availability of digital resources, instructor effectiveness, course design, and prompt feedback mechanisms. Findings indicate that while e-learning offers flexibility, accessibility, and a self-paced learning environment, students face significant challenges such as unreliable internet connectivity, lack of hands-on engagement, and increased screen time fatigue. Despite these challenges, the shift to e-learning has presented long-term opportunities for educational reform. EdTech solutions have enabled institutions to explore blended learning models that combine traditional and digital methods, improving accessibility for students from diverse backgrounds. The study also highlights the growing role of artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and interactive learning tools in enhancing online education. However, it underscores the need for infrastructure improvements, digital literacy training, and policy interventions to bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable access to quality education. In addition to these findings, the study examines how the pandemic reshaped students' learning behaviors and institutional teaching methodologies. Many educators had to quickly adapt to online teaching methods, leading to an increased demand for digital P A G E 1 training programs. Educational institutions faced operational challenges in ensuring seamless online delivery while maintaining academic integrity. This shift has underscored the necessity of incorporating technology-driven approaches in the long-term educational framework. Moreover, the study discusses how the pandemic affected students’ mental well-being. Increased screen time, lack of peer interaction, and difficulties in adapting to virtual learning environments contributed to higher stress levels and reduced motivation among students. The findings emphasize the importance of fostering student engagement through interactive content, virtual collaboration tools, and mental health support initiatives. The study further evaluates government and institutional initiatives taken during the pandemic to facilitate e-learning adoption. Many governments and private organizations introduced free access to online learning platforms, distributed digital devices to underprivileged students, and expanded internet accessibility. However, gaps still exist, particularly in low-income and rural communities, highlighting the need for further efforts in making digital education universally accessible. In conclusion, the impact of EdTech and e-learning during COVID-19 has been profound, reshaping the education landscape permanently. While the transition to online learning has provided new opportunities for education, it also necessitates strategic measures to enhance learning quality and student satisfaction. The study recommends investment in robust digital infrastructure, development of engaging e-learning content, and targeted training programs for educators and students to maximize the potential of digital education in the post-pandemic world. As educational institutions continue to evolve, leveraging technology effectively will be crucial in creating an inclusive, engaging, and efficient learning experience for students worldwide.