Findings From A Qualitative Study of the Experiences and Challenges Private Virtual University Students had with E-Learning During the Covid-19

Abstract

The aim of this research is to identify the challenges related to online learning encountered by postgraduate students who started all coursework in an online mode (modular) prior to the COVID-19 and continued their e-learning during the pandemic at a private virtual university offering pre-university, undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in conventional and online distance-learning. This study employed a qualitative method using individual interviews with postgraduate students from UNITAR International University. Data were analysed through the utilization of a full verbatim protocol. Our findings suggest that the stakeholders (i.e. postgraduate students) adapted well to the change associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. The stakeholders identified both positive and negative aspects of online learning. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the stakeholders had the opportunity to experience online learning. This helped them adjust to the shift to distance learning in light of the pandemic and form well-informed opinions about how to best continue learning, regardless of how the pandemic played out. A comprehensive analysis of the interview data reveals several challenges to the e-learning effectiveness. These challenges are relating to the online collaborative learning, the type of communication in terms of the interaction with instructors and with other students, and barriers to adopting new technology. The implications discussed in this study will help higher education stakeholders be more equipped for any such changes similar to those that accompanied Covid-19 and will provide instructors and students with the tools they need to make the most of their education and maintain continuity of learning.