Project Abstract

Project The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically transformed the education landscape, with educational institutions worldwide rapidly transitioning to online learning platforms to ensure the continuity of instruction. This shift has been particularly significant for economics students, as the subject matter often relies heavily on in-person discussion, hands-on activities, and real-world case studies. This project aims to investigate the impact of this sudden transition to online learning on the academic performance of economics students, providing valuable insights for both educators and policymakers. The importance of this project lies in the critical role that economics education plays in shaping future decision-makers, policymakers, and thought leaders. Economics students are responsible for analyzing complex economic phenomena, developing policies, and driving economic growth and development. Ensuring that these students receive a high-quality education, regardless of the mode of delivery, is crucial for the long-term prosperity of communities and nations. This study will employ a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data analysis to gain a comprehensive understanding of the impact of online learning on economics students. The quantitative component will involve analyzing academic performance data, such as exam scores, course grades, and graduation rates, to identify any significant differences between students who experienced online learning and those who had a traditional, in-person educational experience. The qualitative component will include surveys and interviews with economics students, faculty, and administrators to better understand the challenges, barriers, and opportunities associated with online learning in this field. By examining factors such as student engagement, interaction with faculty, access to resources, and overall learning outcomes, the project will shed light on the unique considerations and adaptations necessary for effective online economics education. The findings will contribute to the growing body of research on the efficacy of online learning, particularly in disciplines that have traditionally relied on in-person instruction. Additionally, the project will explore the potential long-term implications of the shift to online learning, including the impact on student career trajectories, the development of crucial analytical and problem-solving skills, and the ability of economics graduates to contribute to the workforce and society. The insights gained from this study can inform the development of tailored online learning strategies, pedagogical approaches, and support systems to ensure that economics students continue to receive a high-quality education, regardless of the mode of delivery. In conclusion, this project represents a timely and essential investigation into the impact of online learning on the academic performance of economics students. By analyzing both quantitative and qualitative data, the study will provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with this educational transition, ultimately informing policy decisions and pedagogical practices to support the success of economics students in the digital age.

Project Overview