코로나19 여파…초등학교 1~3학년 온라인 개학<br /><br />First through third graders in South Korea joined in on beginning the spring semester online today marking an era of remote learning for this country's all 5-point-4 million students from grades one through 12.<br />Arirang News' Jang Tae-hyun went to a household with three youngsters and their parents getting to grips with this new way of learning today.<br />Many school students and their parents had a busy day on Monday as online classes for elementary grades 1 to 3 finally got underway.<br />Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, schools are still closed and elementary students are among the last to start online classes.<br />Those in grades 1 and 2 watch EBS educational programs on television or use the Internet...while third graders take remote classes using their smart devices or computers.<br />But, there are concerns that some students won't understand the current situation or that they will have a hard time taking online classes.<br />However, education experts say that children above the age of 7 are capable of understanding why they can't go to school and emphasized that their health is more important.<br />"Online classes are shorter than in school, so I had more time to play. But, it's kind of sad that I can't play and talk with friends during break time."<br />But it's not just the children who are trying to adjust as parents are also trying to get used to this new system.<br />"We have more freedom because the children can take online classes anytime. But the problem is that parents need to help them to stay focused."<br />Students may encounter technical problems when studying online, but there are ways to overcome them.<br />"Parents can practice using the technology in advance. They can try to click the buttons or set a password, then practice again with the child."<br />South Korea has implemented online classes to all levels of students.<br />There will be a period of adjustment, but it could be a great opportunity to learn in a new way.<br />Jang Tae-hyun, Arirang News<br />
