The Integrated Effect of Distance and Unhealthy Learning on Student Performance

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused major changes in education, transforming how students and educators communicate, teach, and learn. Beyond distance learning, the pandemic also brought attention to wider concerns about the physical and mental health of students. However, the specific link between COVID-19 and student academic performance is still not widely explored. This study examines how the pandemic affected grades and academic outcomes, looking at both highly interactive subjects and less interactive ones. It also studies students across all levels of performance, from top achievers to those who struggle. The findings show that COVID-19 has clearly influenced student performance. The effects are even stronger in subjects that depend heavily on interaction, challenging the common belief that these subjects do well in virtual environments. Another important discovery is that even high-performing students faced disruptions in their academic progress. In theory, the study expands the understanding of how distance learning, combined with the effects of a global crisis, can harm the academic results of students over time. By uncovering these complex relationships, the research provides deeper insight into the challenges caused by online education and health concerns. In practice, this study offers helpful advice for educators managing the difficulties brought on by pandemics and other crises. It encourages teachers to adjust their methods to better support each student and lessen the negative impacts on learning. These findings serve as a guide for maintaining academic quality and supporting student well-being during times of uncertainty.