The teaching experience of portuguese higher education professors during the covid-19 pandemic lockdown in Portugal

The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by severe acute espiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which was first identified in December 2019 and rapidly evolved into a global pandemic. A nation-wide state of emergency was declared in Portugal, and as a consequence, schools and universities suspended their classes to reduce the spread of SARS-CoV-2 infection. This suspension occurred in many countries besides Portugal, affecting an unprecedented number of students and professors. This pandemic's first wave meant that face-to-face classes temporarily almost disappeared, making online education an essential tool for the first time in history. Virtual learning environments are proven to be successful solutions at different education levels. The existence of digital learning platforms in higher education institutions was crucial for providing online classes and support for millions of students worldwide. It is impossible to think about what education would have been like during the pandemic's first wave if such platforms were not available. However, it is necessary to assess what was put into place through online learning and the perception of the ones involved in its activities, particularly the higher education professors.