Texthelp is a global technology company that helps people understand and learn. Today they've released the results of their recent research study on math and writing instruction during the COVID-19 pandemic. More than 300 teachers across the U.S. responded to surveys specific to their area of instruction. All 198 writing teachers and 125 math teachers use Texthelp's products. The surveys were designed to uncover teacher perceptions of writing and math instruction. They also showed the effects on student learning from the past year.
The findings revealed that teachers perceived students to be significantly less engaged this past school year. They also felt that learning fell behind. Writing, especially, was perceived as having reached crisis levels. Almost 80% of the writing teachers surveyed believed that one out of every two students failed to meet expectations.
The survey also uncovered some positive outcomes. Nearly all of the teachers took advantage of digital tools to support remote, hybrid, or in-classroom learning. In many cases, they used more than one tool to make sure students had access to the curriculum and were engaged. Nearly every teacher saw the value and benefit of digital tools in their classroom. And the majority (nearly 90%), are planning to continue to use learning tools during the coming school year. These trends indicate that the modern classroom is using technology to adapt to the complex needs of students, wherever they are learning.
Shortly after the start of the pandemic, Texthelp saw a 175% increase in usage of its digital math tool and a 200% increase in usage of its writing tool. Many teachers moved from occasional use to using these digital tools every day. Those teachers who responded to the study used Texthelp's EquatIO® or WriQ® throughout the year. As a result, teachers experienced increased efficiency across the board. Even more, students now have the accessible and engaging tools they need.
Study results include:
Navigating Hybrid and Remote Learning:
85% said that student engagement in writing has become lower since the start of the pandemic
49% shared that they had spent less time on writing instruction during remote and hybrid learning
Increased Focus on Writing Attainment:
33% said that 25 percent or less of students are meeting writing expectations
47% believed that only 25-50% of students are meeting writing expectations
Improved Teacher Training:
85% noted that there is no specialist dedicated to teaching writing
73% need more training or don't have adequate training to teach writing well
Increased Usage and Benefits of Digital Math Tools:
64% used a math edtech tool at least once a day to create digital math during hybrid, blended, or remote learning
83% relied more heavily on math edtech tools as a result of hybrid, blended, or remote learning
Low Student Engagement in Math:
76% found stud...
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