Students Perspectives Enrolled in Online Learning Regarding Academic Stress

Online learning has pros and cons, it facilitates students to learn at their own pace without physically going to institutions but on the other hand it gives a considerable academic stress to the learners. This study reports on students’ perspectives on academic stress and challenges in online learning environments, particularly in Pakistan, highlighting major issues of stress and coping strategies. Data were gathered and analyzed through thematic analysis for a sample of 40 students (20 students from Allama Iqbal Open University, and 20 students from Virtual University of Pakistan). The results revealed that unreliable internet access, technical issues, lack of direct instructor interactions in person and greater self-discipline demands have led to increased stress levels. The isolation from peers also curtails motivation and engagement thereby making learning less effective. Although some students thrive with time management strategies and self-paced learning, many find it challenging to find their place and balance their academic responsibilities with personal circumstances. The provision of counseling services and interactive learning activities was proven insufficient to support students against stress. Therefore, the present study recommends ways to improve students’ overall online learning experience which includes better communication between instructors and students, proper technical infrastructure, mental health programs, and collaborative learning. Moreover, in online learning environment addressing these concerns can reduce students’ academic stress as well as enhance their well-being.