The implementation of online learning in efl classroom: its opportunities and drawbacks perceived by teachers and students

Abstract

The spread of the corona virus in various parts of the world has led to policy changes in various sectors of life, including the education sector. In order to inhibit the spread of the corona virus and in an effort to break the chain of spread of viruses that have not yet found a vaccine, governments in various countries affected by the covid-19 virus have made policies to carry out online learning. Likewise in Indonesia, the Indonesian government has officially enforced rules for implementing online learning since March 16, 2020. In practice, however, there are various drawbacks perceived by teachers and students in addition to online learning opportunities. Therefore, this study has aimed to determine the opportunities and drawbacks perceived by teachers and students in the implementation of online learning in East Baturaja district during the covid-19 pandemic. The research was conducted in SMPN 32 OKU, East Baturaja district, OKU Regency. The participants were 7th grade students and English teachers who were selected by purposive sampling method. Interviews according to health protocols with 4 questions and observations were made in data collection. The result show that teachers and students perceived that online learning offered flexibility, offered latest news, offered rich and unrestricted tools, facilitated reading, and helped to become more active for less active students, and was fast and easier. However, considering the advantages for learners as online learning is integrated into teaching and learning, there are certain drawbacks that demand immediate attention.