The Experiences of College Students Impacted by COVID-19: Transitions From Traditional Didactic Learning to Online Formats

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted and transformed the traditional higher educational system. During the rapid transition to online learning environments as a response to public health requirements for social distancing, many college students have struggled with academic challenges while simultaneously coping with personal stressors associated with the balance of school, home, and work. This study seeks to enhance qualitative research focusing on colleges during the COVID-19 pandemic. It explores the experiences of students in traditional academic environments, includes students from underrepresented and diverse populations, and focuses on transitions from traditional didactic learning to online formats. The authors utilized qualitative thematic and summative content analysis as the research methodology. Data were drawn from a survey questionnaire and analyzed for emergent categories. The goal of the study was achieved with the identifi. cation of three categories access to equipment, access to instructor, and access to campus resources, in relation to importance and impact on college students. Additionally, the study provided a context to evaluate the basic resources needed for student educational attainment when considering issues related to disability, diversity, and overall student success.