Teaching Behind the Screen: Distance Learning as a Second Chance for Adult Learners

This study investigates the effectiveness of distance education in Second Chance Schools (SCS) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through the participation of educators and adult learners from various SCS institutions, the research captures experiences, attitudes, and challenges that emerged from the sudden shift from face-to-face to online learning. The findings highlighted certain benefits, such as flexibility and time efficiency, but also revealed significant barriers, including lack of technological equipment, limited or insufficient digital skills, technical difficulties, and inadequate study environments. Educators were required to adapt their pedagogical approaches to a digital context that hindered empathy, interpersonal interaction, and active participation—key elements in adult education. In conclusion, the effective implementation of distance education in Second Chance Schools can be achieved through adequate technical support, targeted digital training, and pedagogical planning that takes into account the specific needs and characteristics of adult learners.