Gestão da Educação em meio à pandemia: mecanismos de adaptação face à intensificação das desigualdades sociais em meio á COVID-19 entre estudantes da Universidade Eduardo Mondlane

Abstract

The study "Education Management Amid the Pandemic: Adaptation Mechanisms Facing COVID- 19 Among Students at Eduardo Mondlane University" sought to understand how students manage academic affairs amidst academic challenges during the pandemic. The research hypothesized that online teaching during this period exacerbated social inequalities among students, affecting their performance. The study theoretically drew on social reproduction theory, emphasizing concepts such as social inequality and the education system. Qualitative methodology was adopted, with semi-structured interviews conducted with 32 intentionally selected students. Findings indicate that during the pandemic, students with limited resources faced significant challenges due to lack of internet access and electronic devices, often relying on loans and shared Wi-Fi networks. Adapting to remote learning also brought emotional and academic difficulties, such as lack of motivation and difficulty absorbing content, especially in practical disciplines. To overcome these adversities, students employed strategies like borrowing devices, recording lectures, and collaborating with peers, demonstrating resilience in the face of challenges. However, the effectiveness of these measures varied due to differences in resource access and social support. In addition to academic challenges, the pandemic profoundly impacted students' social interactions, altering family dynamics and friendships due to physical distancing and personal contact restrictions.