Online Learning: Perceptions of Pre-service EFL Teachers during COVID-19 Pandemic Era

Abstract

This descriptive qualitative research aimed at investigating preservice EFL teachers' perceptions of using online learning during COVID-19 pandemic era. For the purpose of the research, two instruments were used; a 48-item-questionnaire and open-ended interviews with the aim of investigating and collecting data related to the participants' use of online learning. The participants were 101 preservice EFL teachers who were enrolled in the fourth year English Department at the Faculty of Education, Arish University during the first semester of the 2022-2023 academic year. The results of the research revealed that the top five advantages of using online learning were (1) saving time and effort, (2)using preferred technological devices, (3) sharing documents and resources quickly and easily, (4) accessing resources and references easily and ( 5) acquiring new experiences and technological skills. On the contrary, the top five challenges of using online learning were)1) having a weak internet network, (2) the lack of suitable devices, (3) poor electricity connection that hinders online learning,(4) difficulty in fully understanding all subjects within online learning, and ( 5) suffering from isolation and depression across online learning. Finally, open-ended interviews revealed more benefits and challenges of using online learning that were not included in the questionnaire and hence, suggestions for better use of online learning were provided and suggestions for further research were proposed.