Empowering Educators: Overcoming Challenges in Digital Education for Remote Areas

Research Article
Open access

Empowering Educators: Overcoming Challenges in Digital Education for Remote Areas

Kexin Zhang 1*
  • 1 McGill University    
  • *corresponding author kexin.zhang3@mail.mcgill.ca
Published on 24 January 2025 | https://doi.org/10.54254/2753-7048/2025.20510
LNEP Vol.81
ISSN (Print): 2753-7048
ISSN (Online): 2753-7056
ISBN (Print): 978-1-83558-883-3
ISBN (Online): 978-1-83558-884-0

Abstract

Though obstacles including poor infrastructure, scarce resources, inadequate teacher training, and policy gaps prevent its successful implementation, digital education presents new chances to enhance instruction in remote areas. This essay investigates these challenges and looks at strategies for empowering teachers in areas with limited resources. Using a combination of case studies and literature analysis, the study finds structural challenges, such as inadequate internet connectivity, an absence of digital tools, out-of-date instructional materials, and restricted access to professional development. Challenges including evaluating student achievement, sustaining engagement in online learning settings, and modifying pedagogy for digital forms are also covered. To address these issues, the results emphasize the value of training teachers in digital pedagogy, culturally sensitive education, and inclusive evaluation techniques. Furthermore, strengthening community collaborations, financing infrastructure, and enhancing government support are essential for long-term digital education. The essay ends with practical suggestions, such as offering affordable digital resources, individualized instruction, and comprehensive teacher support. By bridging the urban-rural gap and promoting long-term educational progress, these policies seek to provide fair access to high-quality education in remote communities.

Keywords:

Digital Education, Remote Areas, Teacher Empowerment, Infrastructure Challenges, Inclusive Pedagogy

Zhang,K. (2025). Empowering Educators: Overcoming Challenges in Digital Education for Remote Areas. Lecture Notes in Education Psychology and Public Media,81,94-101.
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1. Introduction

In remote areas with limited educational resources, digital education has created new teaching opportunities. However, challenges like poor infrastructure, limited resources, poverty, and insufficient teacher training remain [1]. Addressing these obstacles is essential for equitable access to quality digital education. An experimental study in Lahore, Pakistan, showed that 350 college students rated digital education highly, averaging 4.5 out of 5, citing improvements in performance, self-evaluation, teamwork, and understanding of complex concepts [2]. Current research suggests that digital education holds significant potential for future development, particularly when applied to broader educational contexts like remote areas. This underscores the critical need to effectively address educators' challenges in implementing digital education.

This essay explores how digitization can enhance education in remote areas, addressing challenges like inadequate training, low incentives, salary gaps, limited resources, and welfare issues that deter teachers from working in under-resourced regions [3]. The paper identifies systemic barriers to digital instruction by analyzing literature and case studies and highlights strategies for overcoming them. It aims to inform policies that support remote-area teachers, offering recommendations to enhance online learning, promote effective digital instruction, and ensure quality education for underserved communities.

2. Obstacles to the Implementation of Teaching in Remote Areas under Education Digitization

2.1. Infrastructure Deficiency

The main challenge to online education in remote areas is inadequate infrastructure. Financial constraints result in limited or unreliable internet, hindering implementation despite available teachers and materials [4]. Due to low economic viability, remote areas often lack internet priority, leading to frequent disruptions. Even when available, data costs are high for students and teachers. For instance, in 2015, Zimbabwe introduced Information and Communication Technology in its curriculum, but infrastructure remained insufficient [5]. Financial instability prevents schools from maintaining internet access. Financial instability prevents schools from maintaining internet access [6].

The second challenge is due to financial restrictions, many educators and students in remote areas may not have access to necessary electronic equipment like computers, tablets, or smartphones. Limited access to shared devices in remote areas worsens educational inequality. Providing equipment is challenging and resource-intensive [4]. While some governments and schools provide basic equipment like computers and networks, issues such as misuse, low information literacy, and structural inequities persist [7]. Students unable to use these devices risk missing homework, classes, and interactions with teachers. The scope and quality of digital learning may be constrained by obsolete or incompatible devices with a certain educational platform.

Lastly, Unreliable power supplies in remote areas disrupt live online sessions and self-paced learning. Alternative energy sources like solar are costly and hard to maintain without local support. For instance, a study in rural Zimbabwe found that lacking energy and technology makes remote education challenging [5]. Even the most basic power supply cannot be guaranteed, therefore power outages may disrupt online courses, causing delays and discrepancies in learning times. Students may struggle to finish assignments and tests on time, while teachers have challenges in course planning and material preparation.

2.2. Resources Inequality and Disparities

Attracting and retaining quality teachers in remote areas is challenging due to low pay, limited professional development, inadequate benefits, and poor living conditions. Additionally, there is a lack of support for new teachers, including mentors, training, and resources to address challenges like online education [8]. Educators in remote areas face higher living and professional standards, making them hesitant to stay due to certification concerns. A shortage of organizers, advisors, and administrators adds further strain on the education system. During the pandemic, remote areas lacked technicians for training in remote teaching [4]. The lack of support staff hinders effective program administration and engagement, reducing education quality and opportunities for students.

The second issue is unequal access to educational content. Remote areas often lack up-to-date materials, and there is limited data on how teachers use resources, especially in rural areas. Textbooks may be outdated, and digital resources are often unavailable due to infrastructure constraints [1]. As a result, these students have limited knowledge and struggle to acquire the skills needed for societal progress. The curriculum may not align with local realities, limiting its relevance and students' connection to their culture [1]. Teachers also face challenges in diversifying teaching methods or integrating technology. As a result, students in remote regions may lack the necessary skills and knowledge to flourish in an increasingly globalized and technologically advanced society.

2.3. Teacher's Professional Training

Due to inadequate teacher support and security, remote areas face a severe teacher shortage, forcing educators to handle multiple subjects, which hinders both teacher development and education quality. Distance education in rural areas requires teachers with diverse skills to support more students. Currently, few educators in remote regions can deliver distance learning, often requiring them to teach multiple subjects and develop broad technical teaching expertise [9]. Limited time and resources may prevent teachers from mastering technology for each subject, reducing effectiveness. Without technical support, they must handle tech issues themselves, increasing workload and lowering student engagement [9]. As a result, students may be unable to benefit from the interactive and collaborative aspects of digital education.

Moreover, continuing professional development is critical for educators to understand educational progress and successful teaching practices, particularly in the realm of digital education. Professional development is limited in remote areas, with educators lacking mentoring and peer networks. Long-term support can boost their skills, motivation, and career development, enhancing online teaching in these regions. For example, this topic was highlighted in a study of educators in northern Canada and is still relevant today [8]. Teachers' capacity to enhance teaching techniques and stay current with educational innovation is limited due to a lack of professional development. This isolation also makes it difficult for educators to cooperate, discuss best practices, or seek help when confronted with obstacles, resulting in a static teaching environment that is less innovative and adaptive to students' changing needs.

2.4. Policies and Government Support

Existing education policies in many remote areas are either ineffective or unenforceable in dealing with the particular issues these communities confront. Policies may fail to appropriately address the unique demands of distant communities, or they may lack precise procedures for monitoring and evaluating their implementation. China has tried to standardize education quality through ICT laws, but these policies often fail to address regional needs or monitor implementation [9]. Furthermore, legislative gaps in teacher recruitment, training, and infrastructure leave schools under-resourced, leading to unproductive programs and limited accountability. This often widens disparities in education access and quality between remote and urban areas.

Government funding and support are essential to improve education in remote areas, but these regions often face financial constraints, limiting investment in infrastructure, teacher training, and digital resources. Funding has always been a critical component of long-term education assistance. In countries like Zimbabwe, teachers face challenges in pre-service and in-service training due to limited funding and inadequate legislation [5]. Without sufficient funding, many policies and hardware support cannot be implemented. Limited funding and operational support hinder the implementation of digital learning in remote areas, leading to shortages in technology, facilities, and skilled staff. This restricts access to quality education and widens the urban-rural gap.

3. Challenges and Main Focus of Educator's Teaching

3.1. Adapting Pedagogy to Digital Formats

One of the biggest challenges for educators is converting their methodology to a digital format, particularly when working with students who live in remote regions. Digital learning requires new methods and skills, but many educators lack training and time. Effective online education depends on quality audio and video, with technical issues potentially hindering effectiveness [10]. Teachers have to tackle obstacles that students in remote locations may encounter, such as poor Internet connections, insufficient equipment, or a lack of a comfortable learning environment at home.

Secondly, The shift from teacher-centered to student-centered education is a key challenge, as traditional classrooms give teachers more control, while digital learning relies on active, self-directed students. Australia introduced an online teacher education program to improve remote education, but it faced challenges with low student engagement and completion rates, limiting its success [6]. This change needs both teacher innovation and a willingness to try fresh ideas. Without tools or support, students in remote areas may struggle with self-control and lack the training and technology skills needed for effective online learning [2]. Additionally, creating digital content that meets the individual requirements of each student might be challenging for teachers in remote locations due to language or cultural limitations. In New Mexico, where many elders speak native languages, internet limitations persist [7]. To ensure digital education remains effective, pedagogy must blend institutional support, community insights, and technology training. These difficulties show how important it is to make focused expenditures on curriculum creation, digital infrastructure, and teacher preparation.

3.2. Assessing Student Progress and Providing Effective Feedback

Due to technical limitations in remote areas conventional evaluation techniques, such as in-person inspections or classroom exams, frequently find it difficult to convert well to digital platforms. It can be hard to measure student involvement in online settings, particularly when some students are reluctant to turn on their cameras, which makes it hard for educators to know if they are actively participating in class activities [11]. Consequently, educators must explore innovative approaches to assess student learning. These methods should address challenges like limited technology, unstable internet, and resource constraints while considering home distractions such as chores or farm work [11].

Because of students' lack of awareness of how to ask for positive feedback or the unreliability of technology in distant places giving prompt and useful feedback is also a challenge. The immediate interactions that are permitted in traditional classroom settings are more difficult to develop when educators and students are separated by digital platforms [11]. Teachers need to figure out how to make sure that feedback is both actionable and personalized. Furthermore, teachers may find it harder to provide effective feedback online due to limited interaction, slower response times, and lower student engagement compared to traditional classrooms [12].

Assessing progress requires blending quantitative and qualitative measures, as automated tools often miss critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and individual needs. For example, a study noted a student's concern about learning at the same pace as others, affecting her learning style [13]. Educators must also address concerns about academic integrity due to the vulnerability of digital tests to plagiarism. Teachers face challenges in balancing diverse student needs with strict academic standards. Effective assessment requires professional development, robust digital tools, and institutional support.

3.3. Engagement and Motivation in Digital Contexts

Teachers always struggle to maintain students' motivation and engagement in a digital learning environment. The proliferation of diversions like games and the Internet, which may be made worse by students' unfamiliarity with technological devices in remote areas, makes this issue more serious because it can divert students' attention from academic work. Additionally, while teaching online, teachers tend to concentrate on one-way teaching and lack interaction with distant learners, which might make them feel alone and reduce their engagement [10]. The main difficulty is using technology to actively increase student concentration and involvement rather than merely using it as a teaching tool.

Additionally, students in remote areas might not have as much access to technological devices, which makes them curious and less focused in class. Teachers must ensure students can focus during course design and consider suitable class times for different remote locations. Additionally, maintaining student engagement in a digital classroom can be challenging. To guarantee that all students can engage and remain motivated, educators must consider these disparities when creating a digital curriculum. Policymakers and educators often overlook rural youth's unique needs, impacting their sense of connection [6]. Relating online courses to students' goals and passions can foster intrinsic motivation. When creating courses, educators need to consider the curiosity of students in remote areas in electronic devices and utilize them effectively to increase student attentiveness. This calls for creative problem-solving and ongoing adaptability. To promote a digital learning culture that values discipline and attention outside of the classroom, educators need to successfully include parents and communities [10].

3.4. The Emotional and Well-being of Educators

The shift to digital teaching increases educators' workload with curriculum planning, learning new tools, and troubleshooting, while traditional tasks like lesson prep and student support remain [10]. Limited interaction with colleagues fosters loneliness and frustration, leaving teachers feeling unsupported in online learning. Additionally, in certain instances, online educators may run into cultural barriers. In Mexico, 25% of teachers feel unprepared to teach low-income students, causing stress and alienation [6]. Many online teachers also lack the resources, infrastructure, or training to reduce their workload. For instance, educators in northern Canada report limited professional development, mentorship, and training for teaching special needs students [8]. Furthermore, these teacher efforts are frequently disregarded or overlooked, which lowers their motivation and job satisfaction.

Educators face physical exhaustion and illness from long screen use, causing headaches, eye strain, and posture issues [14]. Bartholomay, an online educator, noted increased physical strain from creating interactive exercises at 3 a.m. High stress from excessive workloads and limited recovery often leads to burnout, fatigue, insomnia, and weakened immunity [11]. Without proactive measures, teachers risk long-term health issues, as seen during the pandemic when stress from critical emails affected their well-being [11]. Health problems can compromise the quality of remote education or stop teaching altogether.

4. Suggestions on Future Support to Educators

4.1. Training Educators in Digital Pedagogy and Technology for Distance Education

Developing and implementing training on digital pedagogy and technology adaption for educators in rural contexts is a complete solution to address the difficulty of converting pedagogy to digital forms in remote places. To engage remote students effectively, online education programs should train teachers in digital methods, technology skills, and culturally relevant practices. ECHO for Education held seminars for 1,842 New Mexico educators in 2020 to boost their confidence in using online teaching skills [7]. Educators are also encouraged to incorporate cultural insights to meet the linguistic and cultural needs of remote students. For example, in East Lombok, Indonesia, incorporating local culture into chemistry and environmental education enhances students' cultural identification [1]. Teachers can improve digital learning for remote students by using culturally relevant resources to boost motivation and self-esteem.

Low-cost digital assistance for the unique requirements of remote areas, such as streamlined digital tools, offline learning materials, and reasonably priced technology, should also be a priority. For instance, in Zimbabwe, it is proposed that government agencies and schools work together to provide funding and assistance [5]. Professionals can be tasked with assisting with the setup and upkeep of digital infrastructure at the same time, giving teachers the technical assistance they require to design productive learning environments. This can improve student retention and completion rates by easing the strain on teacher learning time as well as the family, career, and caregiving obligations of students in remote regions [13].

4.2. Personalized and Inclusive Online Assessment Strategies

Creating a mix of synchronous and asynchronous assessment tools that are suited to various learning situations is the first step in addressing the difficulty of teachers evaluating students online and providing feedback. For instance, before assessing their learning, students might demonstrate it in several ways using formats including projects, tests, reflective journals, or presentations. To make feedback more unique, teachers should personalize it by adding comments or expanding on the student's work. For example, research shows that allowing students to request extensions can make them feel valued and improve their academic performance [13].

Teachers can use technology, like automated quizzes and plagiarism checkers, to track progress and identify gaps, easing assessment. This lets teachers focus on personalized feedback. Self- and peer-assessment also promote reflection and collaborative learning, especially in remote settings. A structured scoring scale ensures fairness and clarity in assessments. For example, a teacher had students collaborate on a project and share sociological reflections in an online forum, fostering collaboration and reflection. Assessments should also be designed to ensure all students can be evaluated without relying solely on the Internet or advanced technology [11]. To guarantee that evaluations are equitable for all students, provide alternatives, such as offline work and extra assistance to youngsters in remote locations.

4.3. Enhancing Engagement with Personalized Online Learning

To address student engagement, educators can design interactive, personalized learning experiences using multi-modal resources to cater to diverse learning preferences. For instance, incorporating videos, games, and online discussions can boost motivation, foster peer connection, and enhance interest in class [2]. Offering alternative, tailored learning pathways further supports student engagement and motivation.

Second, practical applications may be integrated with blended learning. For instance, relating students' real experiences to online education. Create assignments that relate to the interests, cultural background, or issues facing the community of the students. In East Lombok, Indonesia, students use online learning to explore pearl creation, linking it to chemical materials and local culture. This approach sparks students' interest in chemistry and fosters pride in the region's natural and cultural heritage [1].

Lastly, educators may foster partnerships and cooperation, support group projects using digital resources, and preserve the emotional bonds between students and teachers, all of which can increase students' faith in educators. To guarantee greater student participation from a more trustworthy connection, this might be accomplished through group projects or online office hours [2]. It will also help address the common misconception among those opposed to technological change that online learning won't interest students sufficiently if instructors are trained to utilize it effectively and share best practices [5].

4.4. Training and Well-being Support Programs for Educators

To support educators' emotional and physical health, comprehensive systems must be implemented to address their well-being and workload challenges. Wellness programs are essential for equipping educators with stress management tools and preventing burnout. Colleague support groups, such as a care network, stress management classes, and mental health services may all assist educators handle the emotional demands of their work. For instance, Australia's WA Country Teaching Program reduces stress by providing professional and financial support to remote teachers [6]. Regular breaks are also crucial to prevent burnout.

Reducing workloads through collaboration is key to preventing teacher burnout. Shared resources and team teaching can lower preparation time and costs, with online teaching making it easier to offer diverse services and teaching content to remote students [13]. An equal workload distribution and policy changes can give educators the time and resources to address students' needs without disrupting teaching [6]. Providing time to address students' tech issues or family responsibilities bridges the gap between teachers and students, encouraging educators' knowledge sharing and professional growth.

Finally, recognition and support are essential for boosting educator morale and job satisfaction. Acknowledging educators' hard work through formal recognition programs like grants, awards, or public praise can have a positive impact. Mexico's education reform proposes rewarding high-performing teachers and supporting those in need [6]. This approach recognizes teachers' efforts in challenging regions and motivates them to adopt new methods. Ensuring educators feel supported, valued, and empowered, can help maintain healthy, productive online education.

5. Conclusion

In conclusion, the findings of this essay highlight the potential and difficulties involved in introducing digital education in remote areas. It finds that the successful implementation of digital learning platforms is seriously limited by systemic obstacles such as poor infrastructure, a lack of teacher training, and restricted access to digital resources. Furthermore, the challenges teachers encounter in modifying their teaching strategies for digital contexts and interacting with students in ways that are culturally appropriate underscore the necessity of customized solutions. Regardless of these obstacles, the results show that focused assistance, such as teacher capacity building, community engagement, and improved legislative frameworks, may open up opportunities for long-lasting digital education systems.

Moreover, beyond merely pointing out barriers, this research offers practical ways to empower teachers and close the digital gap. Stakeholders may fill important holes in the present educational system by giving priority to teacher-focused tactics, including new assessment methods, culturally inclusive teaching practices, and professional development in digital pedagogy. Furthermore, the focus on developing government assistance and community collaborations highlights the necessity of a comprehensive strategy for digital education. These observations add to the expanding conversation on educational justice and provide a path forward for academics, educators, and legislators to work together to develop practical solutions for distance areas.

Future possibilities for digital education in remote areas are bright, but they will require ongoing investment and innovation. Learning experiences may be made more accessible and customized by using cutting-edge technology like artificial intelligence and adaptive learning platforms. Longitudinal studies are also required to assess the long-term effects of digital education programs and adjust tactics to suit changing demands. To scale effective initiatives, it will also be essential to increase cross-sector cooperation between local communities, business groups, and governments. In the end, to provide fair learning opportunities that empower teachers and improve educational outcomes in distant regions around the globe by tackling the difficulties and utilizing the promise of digital education.


References

[1]. Cahyana, U., Rahmawati, Y., Paristiowati, M., Sasmoko, S., Ahman, A., Ferdianto, J., & Dudung, A. (2020). Ethno pedagogy integration to mobile learning for improving student learning achievement in remote areas. Universal Journal of Educational Research, 8(5), 1687-1697.

[2]. Rafiq, S., Iqbal, S., & Afzal, A. (2024). The Impact of Digital Tools and Online Learning Platforms on Higher Education Learning Outcomes. Al-Mahdi Research Journal (MRJ), 5(4), 359-369.

[3]. Kitchenham, A., & Chasteauneuf, C. (2010). Teacher Supply and Demand: Issues in Northern Canada. Canadian Journal of Education, 33(4), 869-896.

[4]. Aguliera, E., & Nightengale-Lee, B. (2020). Emergency remote teaching across urban and rural contexts: perspectives on educational equity. Information and Learning Sciences, 121(5/6), 471-478.

[5]. Tsimba, G., Mugoniwa, B., & Mutembedza, A. N. (2020). A Mobile Ad-hoc Strategy to Enhance ICT Based Education in Zimbabwean Rural Schools. 2020 IST-Africa Conference (IST-Africa), 1-7.

[6]. Ledger, S., Masinire, A., Delgado, M. a. D., & Burgess, M. (2021). Reframing the policy discourse: A comparative analysis of teacher preparation for rural and remote education in Australia, South Africa, and Mexico. Education Policy Analysis Archives, 29(82).

[7]. Katzman, N. F., & Stanton, M. P. (2020). The Integration of Social Emotional Learning and Cultural Education into Online Distance Learning Curricula: Now Imperative during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Creative Education, 11(09), 1561-1571.

[8]. Ghimire, B. (2022b). Blended learning in rural and remote schools: challenges and opportunities. International Journal of Technology in Education, 5(1), 88-96.

[9]. Wang, J., Tigelaar, D. E., & Admiraal, W. (2019). Connecting rural schools to quality education: Rural teachers' use of digital educational resources. Computers in Human Behavior, 101, 68-76.

[10]. Yang, J., Yu, H., & Chen, N. (2019). Using a blended synchronous classroom approach to promote learning performance in rural areas. Computers & Education, 141, 103619.

[11]. Bartholomay, D. J. (2021). A Time to Adapt, Not "Return to Normal": Lessons in Compassion and Accessibility from Teaching During COVID-19. Teaching Sociology, 50(1), 62-72.

[12]. Sahin-Topalcengiz, E., & Yildirim, B. (2020). Teachers Opinions about Distance Web 2.0 Tools Training and Teachers In-Class Web 2.0 Practices. Journal of Turkish Science Education, 17(4), 561-577.

[13]. Stone, C., Freeman, E., Dyment, J. E., Muir, T., & Milthorpe, N. (2019). Equal or equitable?: The role of flexibility within online education. Australian and International Journal of Rural Education, 29(2), 26-40.

[14]. Department of Health & Human Services. (n.d.). Work-related stress. Better Health Channel.


Cite this article

Zhang,K. (2025). Empowering Educators: Overcoming Challenges in Digital Education for Remote Areas. Lecture Notes in Education Psychology and Public Media,81,94-101.

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About volume

Volume title: Proceedings of the 3rd International Conference on Social Psychology and Humanity Studies

ISBN:978-1-83558-883-3(Print) / 978-1-83558-884-0(Online)
Editor:Kurt Buhring
Conference website: https://2025.icsphs.org
Conference date: 14 February 2025
Series: Lecture Notes in Education Psychology and Public Media
Volume number: Vol.81
ISSN:2753-7048(Print) / 2753-7056(Online)

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References

[1]. Cahyana, U., Rahmawati, Y., Paristiowati, M., Sasmoko, S., Ahman, A., Ferdianto, J., & Dudung, A. (2020). Ethno pedagogy integration to mobile learning for improving student learning achievement in remote areas. Universal Journal of Educational Research, 8(5), 1687-1697.

[2]. Rafiq, S., Iqbal, S., & Afzal, A. (2024). The Impact of Digital Tools and Online Learning Platforms on Higher Education Learning Outcomes. Al-Mahdi Research Journal (MRJ), 5(4), 359-369.

[3]. Kitchenham, A., & Chasteauneuf, C. (2010). Teacher Supply and Demand: Issues in Northern Canada. Canadian Journal of Education, 33(4), 869-896.

[4]. Aguliera, E., & Nightengale-Lee, B. (2020). Emergency remote teaching across urban and rural contexts: perspectives on educational equity. Information and Learning Sciences, 121(5/6), 471-478.

[5]. Tsimba, G., Mugoniwa, B., & Mutembedza, A. N. (2020). A Mobile Ad-hoc Strategy to Enhance ICT Based Education in Zimbabwean Rural Schools. 2020 IST-Africa Conference (IST-Africa), 1-7.

[6]. Ledger, S., Masinire, A., Delgado, M. a. D., & Burgess, M. (2021). Reframing the policy discourse: A comparative analysis of teacher preparation for rural and remote education in Australia, South Africa, and Mexico. Education Policy Analysis Archives, 29(82).

[7]. Katzman, N. F., & Stanton, M. P. (2020). The Integration of Social Emotional Learning and Cultural Education into Online Distance Learning Curricula: Now Imperative during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Creative Education, 11(09), 1561-1571.

[8]. Ghimire, B. (2022b). Blended learning in rural and remote schools: challenges and opportunities. International Journal of Technology in Education, 5(1), 88-96.

[9]. Wang, J., Tigelaar, D. E., & Admiraal, W. (2019). Connecting rural schools to quality education: Rural teachers' use of digital educational resources. Computers in Human Behavior, 101, 68-76.

[10]. Yang, J., Yu, H., & Chen, N. (2019). Using a blended synchronous classroom approach to promote learning performance in rural areas. Computers & Education, 141, 103619.

[11]. Bartholomay, D. J. (2021). A Time to Adapt, Not "Return to Normal": Lessons in Compassion and Accessibility from Teaching During COVID-19. Teaching Sociology, 50(1), 62-72.

[12]. Sahin-Topalcengiz, E., & Yildirim, B. (2020). Teachers Opinions about Distance Web 2.0 Tools Training and Teachers In-Class Web 2.0 Practices. Journal of Turkish Science Education, 17(4), 561-577.

[13]. Stone, C., Freeman, E., Dyment, J. E., Muir, T., & Milthorpe, N. (2019). Equal or equitable?: The role of flexibility within online education. Australian and International Journal of Rural Education, 29(2), 26-40.

[14]. Department of Health & Human Services. (n.d.). Work-related stress. Better Health Channel.