Exploring the Challenges and Experiences of Students in Online Distance Learning (ODL) during Covid-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Covid-19 pandemic has spread over the world, causing a health disaster since at the end of 2019. The majority of the higher education system operates through e-learning and students have to adapt to a new lifestyle. The majority of students believed that online classes need more work than traditional classes do. Hence, this study was dedicated to explore which challenges that affect the students and positive and negative response during online distance learning (ODL) among Diploma in Pharmacy students. The cross-sectional study design by means of online questionnaire distribution using Whatsapp and email involving diploma of pharmacy students in Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Pulau Pinang, Bertam Campus. The findings revealed that the most common cause of overall challenges faced by students was a lack of focus during online learning. In addition, two of them showed positive response against ODL, namely challenges impacting students study performance and mental health. Meanwhile, the respondents also showed three themed challenges with negative response against ODL which were challenges in interacting, gaining internet access and getting supports. Face-to-face learning was preferred by students over online learning. As a result, students were challenged differently to the shift in this current learning method.