ONLINE LEARNING, SOCIAL EXCLUSION, AND STUDENTS’ MENTAL HEALTH IN THE DIGITAL ERA:
Subjects/Theme:
Online learning, social exclusion, mental health, digital education, studentsDescription
The rapid growth of digital technology has significantly transformed the education system, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, online learning has become an important part of education. Although online learning helped continue education during the pandemic, it also created several social and psychological problems among students. Lack of face-to-face interaction, excessive screen time, internet-related issues, and social isolation caused stress, anxiety, loneliness, and depression among many learners. Students from rural and economically weaker backgrounds faced greater difficulties due to the lack of digital facilities and internet access. The chapter also examines how digital inequality and social exclusion affect students’ educational participation and well-being. This chapter discusses the impact of online learning on students’ social life and mental health. It also highlights the role of teachers, parents, and educational institutions in creating a supportive and inclusive online learning environment.