Understanding the COVID-19 Impacts on Social Work Learning Through the Lens of Planned Behavior Theory
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18060/27746Keywords:
distance learning, planned behavior theory, COVID-19 pandemic, online learning, Social WorkAbstract
COVID-19 was a global pandemic that caused higher education to enter emergency distance learning. Students experienced a myriad of emotional and psychological stressors during this pandemic. While the demand for online learning has been steadily increasing, even in the field of social work, it has nonetheless lagged behind other disciplines due to concerns about limited interpersonal interactions. We attempted to understand students’ intentions, behaviors, and outcomes related to the distance learning method during the COVID-19 pandemic through the lens of Planned Behavior Theory. We used a cross-sectional qualitative study containing some quantitative questions. Study data was drawn from 13 interviews conducted at two Hispanic serving institutions (HSI)s in North Texas. Findings of our study included three major themes: challenges and stressors; attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control that increased intentions and adaptive behaviors; and resource gaps that interfered with adaptive behaviors. Exploring students’ perceptions and behavioral responses to learning provides identification of new or hidden pedagogical obstacles and novel approaches to address the challenges in Social Work education. The study findings can contribute to improving resources and addressing gaps in the curriculum as we continue to think critically and creatively about virtual education in the future.
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