NAVIGATING CHALLENGES: THE ROLE OF TEACHERS IN DIGITAL EDUCATION AMIDST THE COVID-19 EPIDEMIC

Abstract

The paper addresses the key roles expected of teachers in the new digital era. The role of teachers in the 21st century has become increasingly complex in today's information-rich world, where knowledge is virtually limitless. Teachers are required to be digitally literate and responsible not only for their teaching but also for their students' learning. They are expected to act as facilitators, helping students make decisions about the quality and validity of new information, while also being open-minded and critical independent professionals. Additionally, they must serve as active co-managers, collaborators, and mediators between students and the information they need to comprehend, as well as providers of contextual understanding. In this digital age, the role of teachers has evolved from mere instructors to managers of students' social and emotional behaviours, guiding their learning and overall development as responsible citizens. They must motivate both slow and fast learners in a diverse learning environment. Teachers need to monitor students' time usage to ensure they utilize the best e-resources effectively. They also need to address any issues that may affect students' learning and be prepared to make adjustments if their learning progress stalls.