International Journal of Education, Science and Social Sciences

Original Articles

Vol. 3 No. 2 (2024)

Perception and Readiness of Undergraduate Education Students for Online Learning During the COVID-19 Pandemic at Umma University, Kenya

Published
2024-11-06

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic led to a rapid shift in educational delivery worldwide, with online learning becoming the primary mode of instruction. This study investigates the perception and readiness of undergraduate education students toward online learning during this period at Umma University, Kenya. The study was guided by the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and employed a descriptive research design. The target population consisted of third- and fourth-year Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) students at Umma University, with a sample size of 105 students selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, which was pilot-tested to refine items and improve reliability and validity. To ensure the robustness of the data, content and construct validity assessments were conducted, along with reliability testing using Cronbach's alpha. The analysis involved both descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings indicate that students at Umma University generally held positive perceptions towards the online learning platform used during the COVID-19 pandemic. They found online learning beneficial for their studies, particularly in terms of enhancing digital skills and flexibility. Students expressed confidence in their ICT knowledge, which eased their use of the platform, but also faced technical challenges such as connectivity issues, signal loss, and sound clarity during live sessions. Results further indicated strong positive correlation (r = 0.824, ρ < 0.05) between students' perceptions and their readiness for using the online learning platform. This relationship implies that students who perceive the platform as effective, accessible, and user-friendly are more likely to feel prepared and confident in using it. To address the technical challenges reported by students, Umma University should consider investing in reliable internet infrastructure and bandwidth management solutions.

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