ABSTRACT Educational institutes across India have been closed since mid-March 2020 due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Schools and colleges in rural, remote areas of India are experiencing unprecedented challenges due to the closure of institutions. Against this backdrop, the present paper explored the challenges of online learning in rural areas for all stakeholders. This qualitative investigation was conducted on two students, two parents, and two teachers in rural areas. The uniqueness of the study is that it analysed the challenges of online learning from the perspective of students, teachers, and parents. It is found from the study that online teaching-learning is challenging due to multiple factors such as lack of technical gadgets, poor network connectivity, and electricity problems. Lack of previous experience in online teaching is a major shortcoming for teachers. Parental literacy and student interest are other hindrances. Stress has been experienced by parents, students, and teachers due to the transition from traditional to online learning.

KEYWORDS COVID-19. Online Learning. Rural Areas. Unprecedented Challenges

| DOI: 10.17148/IARJSET.2021.8712