Distance education in higher education institutions in Ukraine during war: challenges and adaptations

Abstract

The article aims to draw the attention of the academic community and social work practitioners to the analysis of the dynamics of distance education development in higher education institutions of Ukraine during the war. The study discusses the consequences of the war for traditional educational systems and for higher education institutions in particular. It also gives a brief overview of the scale of displacement universities from the temporarily occupied territories, the number of students, institutions, and teachers. The purpose of the research is also to analyze the impact of the hostilities on students and faculty, the organization of the educational process, challenges, and adaptation strategies based on the example of representatives of three higher education institutions, with whom four in-depth interviews were conducted. This material is presented in three dimensions: sustainability, challenges, and adaptation. The article analyzes issues such as technical problems, geographical dispersion of students and faculty, mental health support and stress management, security issues, etc. Different adaptation strategies used by different types of universities - displaced and non-displaced - that use online learning to ensure continuity of education are characterized. The positive impact of distance education and the disadvantages educators and students face are highlighted. Additionally, it identifies pressing challenges faced by operational institutions, requiring attention at multiple levels.