Perception of University Undergraduates Towards Online Learning Amidst Covid-19 Pandemic Lockdown

Abstract

The study assessed the perception of Nigeria University Undergraduates towards benefits and challenges associated with online learning during covid-19 pandemic lockdown. Adapted and validated questionnaires were used. The data collected after administration of the instrument to the participants were analysed with frequency counts and percentages. Findings from the studies revealed that majority of the participants enjoy the flexibility of online learning, quick sharing of learning materials, opportunity for collaboration, its consideration for individual student’s learning style, its multimedia approach, encouraging active learning, constant updates of content and real-time synchronous interaction. Findings also revealed that majority do not enjoy online learning due to lack of a personal computer, sometimes they don’t participate due to high cost of internet bundle, communication in online classroom is sometimes distorted, sometimes students have difficulty to participate in online discussion and sometimes they have technical challenges due to digital literacy. Also, majority disagree with the notion that online learning leads to social isolation, difficult for collaboration, it leads to distraction and that it is boring for training. Based on the results of the study far reaching, recommendations were provided including that students be provided with personal computer, internet facilities should be accessible, training should be provided for instructors on the use of learning management system even after the pandemic