Online Education during Lockdowns: Comparing its Impact on Physical and Psychological Wellbeing, in University Faculty and Students

Abstract

This paper examines the academic community in Cyprus and Greece, during the Covid-19 lockdowns, when Universities shifted to online education. Daily routine, mental health (anxiety and depression), physical health (pain) and quality of life were measured. Cross-comparisons were performed (before vs. during lockdown or based on socio-demographic characteristics). Interesting results were obtained. There was an overall increase in hours spent sitting and sleeping. Students slept significantly more than faculty and faculty worked for longer hours with fewer breaks. Students were more negatively affected psychologically compared to faculty, whereas females were more negatively affected, both physically and mentally. Since the pandemic continues, working from home remains a solution in many cases, while distance learning has been shown to be efficient, with Universities adopting it as an alternative method in their programmes. Proper training should aim to protect the mental and physical health of the University community during remote work or work under stressful conditions.