PERCEPTIONS OF STUDENTS TOWARDS USING E-LEARNING IN TEACHING AND LEARNING IN COVID-19 PANDEMIC ERA

Abstract

The study was designed to determine the perceptions of students on the strengths and weaknesses of the E-learning programme of the University of Maiduguri, Distance Learning Centre of Federal College of Education (Technical) Gombe, Campus in the Covid-19 pandemic era. Two research questions were raised to guide the study. Descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study while the population of the study consisted of distance learning students of the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID), Federal College of Education (Technical) Gombe campus. The sample of the study were 60 students, selected from the total population of 120, using simple random sampling technique. A 15-item structured questionnaire was used for data collection based on modified 4-point rating scale. Reliability coefficient of the instrument was 0.79. The statistical tools used for data analysis was Mean ratings. The findings of the study revealed that the E-learning was student-centred as opposed to teacher-centred learning; hence it helps the students to be ICT compliant, and it also encourages learning at one’s own pace, and flexibility. However, it was found that epileptic power supply, financial constraints, resistance to change and lack of technical skills are some of the problems hindering effectiveness of e-learning. Amongst the recommendations proffered were that students should have a good knowledge of computer in order to reduce the effect of computer anxiety and phobia; and that the government should intensify efforts by making computer easily accessible to all.