Remote Learnings Effect on Grades, Attitudes Towards School

In the Spring of 2020 Greenfield High School implemented a remote learning program, that was graded on a pass/fail scale and students were exempt from taking finals.In the Fall of 2020, GHS continued with remote learning, this time with letter grading, and midterms and finals exams being required for students to take. As the second semester comes to an end, GHS students share how remote learning has affected their grades, and how they feel about it thus far.

“I don’t think remote learning is harder (than in person)” said Cassandra Mattei, a senior, “but I feel like some teachers don’t expect as much out of us because it’s online, and because of the overall situation.”

“In some aspects yes, [remote learning is harder]. In terms of school work I don’t think so.” added Tess Rancourt, a junior. “Teachers are struggling too and I haven’t learned much. I think socially it’s harder.” Rancourt is not the only student who thinks that not having the social aspect of school makes remote learning much more challenging.

Eighth graders who are just transitioning to the High School from the middle school, may have an exceptionally challenging time adjusting to the new routines and expectations. “It is hard, I cannot focus and I get distracted easily” said Olivia Bassingthwaite, an 8th grader, new to GHS. “It is easier when the teacher is there while I am doing my work so I can ask for help, I find it harder to ask for help over the computer.”

Bassingthwaite explained to me that remote learning has negatively affected her grades. “I feel like it is easier to complete the work in person than it is online. It is hard to keep track of what is due and I have a hard time turning things in on time.”

Although it has negatively impacted the grades of Olivia, that is not the case for all students. “I think it has definitely had a positive impact on my grades” said Rancourt “although I am not 100% sure that is because of remote learning.”

“I don’t think my grades have really changed. The harder part is comprehending the information in classes.” added Mattei. The impact on grades due to remote learning seems to vary between students, which most likely has to do with each individual’s learning style.

Despite grades and difficulty, I wanted to know how students feel about remote learning overall.

“I would say I don’t hate it, but I don’t love it” said Mattei “I think it works for continuing our education during the pandemic.”

“I have a lot more freetime now, but I miss being in school and being social,” said Rancourt.

Bassingthwaite, on the other hand, is not a fan of remote learning. “I do not like it at all. For me personally it is just harder to learn. Either way I have a hard time learning and it is just harder not being in person.”

An important thing to note while looking at the differences between the answers of the upperclassmen compared to Olivia’s, is that this is her first year at GHS.

“It is a hard transition from middle school (being remote)” Bassingthwaite continued “Last year, we did not get as much work and the classes were easier. Now we have more classes in a day and there is definitely a lot more pressure on us from teachers to get your work done on time and to complete everything.” Ultimately, I asked Olivia if she felt that the transition would have been easier if it were in person, toin which she replied “Yes.”

Despite the challenges that students may have faced due to remote learning it is important to consider that many are doing the best they can. Remote learning is a safe option for students to continue learning during the pandemic, and for students to avoid contracting COVID-19. This school year has been difficult for not only students but also teachers, the administration and other GHS staff members. “I think teachers are doing their best to make it the most like normal school it can be.” said Rancourt.