Research in Social Sciences and Technology
Vol 6 No 2 (2021): Research in Social Sciences and Technology (Special Issue)

Students’ Responses to Multi-Modal Emergency Remote Learning During COVID-19 in a South African Higher Institution

Obert Matarirano (Walter Sisulu University, Butterworth Campus: Butterworth, Eastern Cape, South Africa)
Onke Gqokonqana (Walter Sisulu University, Butterworth Campus: Butterworth, Eastern Cape, South Africa)
Abor Yeboah (Walter Sisulu University, Butterworth Campus: Butterworth, Eastern Cape, South Africa)



Article Info

Publish Date
15 Sep 2021

Abstract

COVID-19 pandemic forced several higher education institutions (HEI) to operate remotely. Emergency remote teaching, using synchronous and asynchronous instruction, was adopted by several HEIs. The experiences of students with remote teaching and learning in certain situations are not fully understood, thus need to be explored. This study explored the experiences of students with the emergency remote teaching and learning practices adopted at a selected HEI in South Africa. A cross-sectional and self-administered survey was used to gather data from 243 conveniently sampled returning students within the Department of Accounting and Finance. Descriptive statistics were used to make sense of the collected data. The study found that students preferred a face-to-face approach to learning to remote learning. The respondents underscored insufficient data, unstable network connection, unconducive home environments and loneliness as deterrents to effective remote learning. Despite these negative experiences, students appreciated the flexibility and convenience of recorded video lectures and acknowledged the compassion and support of lecturers during remote learning. An understanding of the experiences of students during remote learning provides a basis for future teaching plans, which would improve students' learning experiences. In its current format and students living in their home environments, remote learning greatly diminishes the chances of success for most students. Lecturers need to be compassionate and considerate of student’s struggles in their plans for remote teaching and learning as well as online learning.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ressat

Publisher

Subject

Education

Description

Office address of Editor-in-Chief: Yesilova Mah. Caldiran Cad. 29/11 Etimesgut-Ankara-Turkey-- E-ISSN registered office located at Den Haag Netherlands, 2496 ...