The univerity of Zambia students’ experiences about online learning during COVID-19 pandemic lockdown.
Date
2024
Authors
Takazo, Liswaniso Mathews
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
The University of Zambia
Abstract
The study aimed to investigate the experiences of University of Zambia students with online learning during the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown. The study was guided by connectivism theory by George Siemens (2005). The study's objectives were to explore lived experiences students had about online learning during COVID-19 lockdown, to establish the benefits of online learning in times of COVID-19 pandemic lockdown and to establish challenges which students faced when using online learning during COVID19 pandemic lockdown at the University of Zambia. The study used a qualitative research design because this design is ideal as it explores and understands the meaning individuals or groups ascribe to a social or human problem. The sample for the study was 20 respondents who were purposive selected. These 20 students were subjected to a focus group discussion. Data was analysed qualitatively using thematic analysis. The study revealed some positive and negative experiences. The positive experiences included: the flexible nature of online learning, conduciveness of online learning and anonymity nature of online learning. The negative experiences included but not limited to: unequal access to online learning, social interaction and digital divide. The findings further showed the following benefits of online learning: availability of recorded lessons/lectures, availability of additional resources/materials on the internet, reduced numbers of COVID-19 cases amongst students among others. Some notable challenges encountered by students included: poor internet connectivity, unaffordable data bundles, lack of online learning facilities, limited number of students some online platforms could accommodate, lack of interaction, power cuts, digital divide and unconducive home environment. Given the above, the study recommended that the government should improve ICT infrastructure, internet services and access in the country. To enhance online learning, universities should be provided with more ICT equipment.
Key Words: experiences, online learning, online platforms, COVID-19, Pandemic, teaching.
Description
Thesis of Master of Education in Sociology of Education.