Abstract:

The unusual situation related to the pandemic of COVID-19 forced the introduction of distance learning in Bulgarian schools. The education system was not ready for this challenge. Despite the crisis, it proved to be flexible and adaptable. The consequences of the change in the way of learning reflect the psychological and emotional state of the children from one hand and the other in the quality of the education they will receive. On the one point of view, the lack of personal contact with the teachers creates obstacles for the effective absorption of the taught material and appropriate explanation of any ambiguities. Many teachers share the concern that online lessons are not working effectively enough and that the learning process is slowing down and becoming more complicated. On the other point of view, lack of contact with peers and low physical activity could have an extremely negative impact on the psychological disposition of children. Lifestyle changes in adolescent families can lead to more family conflicts, feelings of stress, and anxiety.

Parents and children need to adjust to spending much more time together in the current pandemic. Stress levels in the family are higher than ever. The usage of digital technologies can help parents and children cope with the tensions in the current situation. The education community can play a significant role in this regard.

The article presents a survey among students from different schools in Bulgaria on the challenges of distance learning furthermore conflicts in the family environment. The issues discussed are the difficulties encountered in learning the material, retention of attention during classes, motivation to learn, and their relationship to family conflicts. The study aims to provide an overview of the family conflicts in the COVID situation from the students' point of view. In addition, there are recommendations for improving the quality of distance learning in school education, seeking a balance to ensure a conflict-free and peaceful family environment.

Keywords:

Digital technologies, education, COVID-19, conflict situations.