Abstract:

The current pandemic caused by COVID-19 gives a new impetus to the development of distance learning. Most universities around the world switch to non-stop lectures and exercises - in an online environment. Almost all spheres of modern human life have changed significantly under the influence of computer and information technology. The field of education is no exception, as the informatization of the educational process is one of the most important mechanisms affecting the main directions for modernization of the entire educational system in the country. Distance learning based on modern information and communication technologies allows not only training but also improving the qualifications of users of educational services.

Until recently, the general attitude was that the distance learning reduces the effectiveness of the learning process due to the lack of communication between teachers and students. But in 2020, university institutions in Bulgaria and many countries around the world were able to adapt quickly to the crisis and to prove that the online learning is no less effective. On the contrary - good online learning - shows the ability of the university to be a leader by showing readiness to work in emergency situations and to generate confidence in the quality of educational services and teachers. It is important to mention that the effectiveness of education depends to a large extent on the trust in the university, the lecturers, the way they teach and the content of the curricula.

The article presents the important aspect of distance learning, namely maintaining confidence in the services provided, which should not be qualitatively different from those in the field. On the other hand, motivation and its preservation is essential in this period of students' education. The main purpose of the article is to outline the importance of the maintaining the students motivation in the educational process during the distance learning. The conclusions of the article reveal strong correlation between motivation and trust in the universities and in the lecturers.

Keywords:

Trust, distance learning, universities, education, motivation.