Virtual Lockers and Remote Relationships: Amplified Uncertainty Transitioning to High School in the COVID-19 Pandemic

• In Event: Current Research in Learning Environments: Impact of Remote Learning, Learning Spaces, and Student Perception Tools

Abstract

The transition to high school presents an array of new relationships, expectations, and demands placed on ninth grade students. For those starting high school in the 2020-21 school year, particularly whose families were impacted by the inequities wrought by the COVID-19 pandemic, their transition was like no other. Drawing on in-depth semi-structured qualitative interviews conducted with 18 ninth grade students from a large high school in metropolitan St. Louis in spring 2021, findings reveal a complexity of experiences distinctive to the challenges of remote learning and the conditions of the pandemic. The amplified uncertainties that students faced during this time further underscores the need to focus on classroom environments that enhance health, mental health and educational support in schools.

Authors

• Andrew Brake, Northeastern Illinois University
  Presenting Author

• Florian Sichling, University of Missouri - St. Louis
  Presenting Author