Students’ Perceptions towards Online Learning in the Upper East Region

Abstract

Online learning has become the most dominant mode of instruction adopted by facilitators due to the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic. Instructors adopted this mode of instruction in order to engage students in academic activities while they stay in their comfort zones. This study therefore investigated students’ perceptions towards online learning. Two research questions were formulated to guide the study. Purposive sampling technique was adopted in sampling participants for the study. Data was analysed using inferential statistics (ANOVA) and descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation and percentage). The interview data was also analysed using thematic analysis. The finding from the study proved that online learning has several benefits and challenges. The findings from the study proved that online learning helps students to learn at their own pace and also share information among each other and facilitators easily. It was also found that online learning saves money and students time since they do not need to travel to the study centers. The study also proved that poor internet connectivity is a serious challenge of online learning. Lack of computer skills and ICT logistics also affect student’s participation in online learning. There was statistically significant difference between the mean perceptions of students on benefits and challenges of online learning. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended that Ghana Education Service should provide students with laptops, android phones and tablets to enhance their effective participation in online learning. It was also recommended that tertiary institutions offering online courses should organize seminars for students on online learning and also provide students with internet bundles to help them participate effectively in online learning.