An Investigation of Students Perceptions on Connectedness to their School when Learning Remotely at a City High School in East Tennessee

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study was to investigate students’ perceptions of connectedness while learning remotely at site school in Northeast Tennessee. The aim of this study was to seek whether students learning remotely felt connected to their school. The participants comprised of grades 10 through 12 and included six total participants. Data were collected via one-on-one interviews, a survey, and one focus group session. Data were analyzed using Creswell’s (2013) six step approach for qualitative data analysis. Once organized and coded, three main themes emerged: (1) communication as a foundation for connectedness and relationships; (2) disconnectedness to peers; (3) and readiness to return to in person learning. These themes provide information for stakeholders involved in remote learning as this mode of education continues to grow beyond pandemic relief.