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Articles

Vol. 3 No. 3 (2023): Parents/guardians, education and digital technologies

The experience of a parent of distance learners during Covid-19: An autoethnography

DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21428/8c225f6e.10a1d13b
Submitted
12 August 2026
Published
15-08-2026

Abstract

At the outbreak of Covid-19, my children’s school shifted to online distance learning, an unprecedented experience for me and a situation that I never prepared for. The potential for replicability is the main driver behind this study, i.e., to bring this experience to the attention of concerned stakeholders to assist in similar future possibilities. Recent literature addressed the subject from outsider positions where the researchers were not part of the experience. This study addresses it from a different perspective, specifically following an autoethnographic approach through my insider lenses as a parent of three children who attended online distance learning during that period. Findings presented challenges I faced due to the abrupt transition to online learning without adequate planning; these include home-related issues, school-related issues, added roles and responsibilities, and other challenges. Moreover, I highlighted some opportunities that emerged from the experience, including distance learning takeaways, more time with the family, and preparedness for similar future situations. The findings also revealed some insights I gained, including the importance of school-parent cooperation, closer awareness of my children’s education processes and learning styles, and informal evaluation of my children’s education.

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