E-Learning in the ‘New Normal’ on Students at Kwame Nkrumah University in Zambia: Inclusive or Exclusive

International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI) | Volume VIII, Issue II, February 2021 | ISSN 2321–2705

E-Learning in the ‘New Normal’ on Students at Kwame Nkrumah University in Zambia: Inclusive or Exclusive

Magasu Oliver, Mileji Pauline, Lubbungu Jive
Kwame Nkrumah University-Zambia

Abstract:-The main purpose of this study was to establish the inclusiveness of e-learning amidst COVID-19 on undergraduate students on full-time and distance learning at Kwame Nkrumah University. The population for the study involved a total number of thirty-five students from Kwame Nkrumah University who provided complete information regarding the survey. A physical and an online descriptive survey were conducted on different social media platforms like student WhatsApp groups and Zoom from 10th May to 8 July 2020 to collect data. This research took a qualitative approach. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. An interview guide and semi-structured questionnaires were used to collect data. The main findings were that during the quarantine period, around 20% of learners were involved in e-learning. Most of the learners used android mobile phones for attending e-learning lessons. Further, the study revealed that students were facing various problems relating to failure to pay 50% of the fees as a condition to accessing online e-learning lectures, not having smartphones, lack of orientation on the part of the students, poor internet connectivity, and unfavorable study environment at home. Students from remote areas of Zambia and those with impairment were the most affected in terms of accessibility to the e-learning platform. As a result of the many challenges students were facing during this period, this study among other recommendations recommends to Kwame Nkrumah University management to devise a flexible education system that will be inclusive in terms of accessibility and will enforce the skill for employability and productivity.

Key Words: COVID-19; E-learning; Undergraduate; Inclusive; Exclusive

I. BACKGROUND AND CONTEXT

E-learning has been defined differently by different scholars. Going by the definition of Arkorful and Abaidoo (2014), e-learning is defined as the delivery of learning through technology and the internet. This means learning that is empowered by the use of digital technologies. In this study, a shift from the traditional way of learning to e-learning is considered an innovation. According to Rogers (2003) innovation is an idea, practice, or project that is perceived as new by an individual or other unit of adoption. Innovation may have been invented a long time ago, but if individuals perceive it as new, then it may still be an innovation for them. The question is: ‘Has this innovation settled well with students at Kwame Nkrumah University?’ ‘Is it inclusive or Exclusive?’ This study has to establish the facts.

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