Abstract:

The COVID-19 pandemic and the related emergency measures to limit the spread of the virus in Bulgaria have led to an urgent reorganization of the learning process. A significant degree of freedom was given to the schools and teachers to determine the models, forms, methods, and tools for organizing the teaching and learning processes according to the specific school context and the needs of students.

This article summarizes the results of a study of the impact of distance learning in an electronic environment or other absentee forms on the effectiveness of school education in Bulgaria, in particular students, users of a center for support for personal development. The study identifies and analyzes the main factors that affect educational performance at the school level and the individual level (students, teachers, and parents). An assessment strategy has been created, which links the resource provision of the distance learning process, the organization and course of teaching and learning processes, the available systems for adaptation and support of learning, and the achieved results for students, teachers, parents, and the school. Research questions were sought, such as whether the introduction of distance learning was provided by electronic devices, Internet access, a suitable virtual environment, and electronic educational resources in the student's home and school; whether procedures and opportunities have been created for support and adaptation of the distance learning process in an electronic environment; whether the students managed to adapt to the learning process from a distance and what education they prefer - traditional or remote; how students' attitudes and attitudes towards learning and learning content have changed; in case of difficulties, what kind of support do they seek - from a parent or educator, etc.

The strategy for assessing the advantages and disadvantages of traditional and distance learning on the formed competencies of students is described in detail. The study offers an opportunity for a broad analysis of educational effectiveness in the Bulgarian educational system. This can help make data-based decisions to ensure adaptability and improve the efficiency of the educational process, reduce inequalities, ensure equal opportunities for quality education, ensure the sustainability of acquired knowledge and skills, and reduce the risk of dropping out of school.

Keywords:

Distance learning, digital competencies, school education.