An investigation of the challenges of virtual learning in tertiary institutions in cross River state: The post covid-19 Era

Abstract

In 2020 the global academic calendar was halted as a result of corona virus pandemic and most schools switched immediately to online learning. This was not the case with schools in Cross River State, as they lack facilities and the technology to run virtual programs. The purpose of this study is to investigate the challenges of virtual learning implementation in tertiary institutions in Cross River State, Nigeria. To achieve the purpose of the study, four research questions were raised to guide the study. Literature was carried out accordingly; the study adopted a mixed method research design. The design was a convergent parallel design that involves the use of qualitative and quantitative approach to data collection and analysis and the population of this study comprises of all teaching staff, students and the administrators from the five selected tertiary institutions under study. Stratified sampling technique was used to select a total of 3000 respondents; of which 2000 were students and 1000 were staff, randomly selected from the population. Two structured instruments were developed for data collection. Also interview was used for data collection and Data collection was done by the researchers and analysed using simple percentage, bar graphs and one sample t- test statistics. Based on the findings, it was revealed that Majority of the students are aware of the utilization of online learning resources in the study area · Lack of internet facilities, lack of internet enabled phones, among others are the perceived challenges that hinders students’ utilization of online learning resources · Academic staffs require skills to effectively use the online learning platforms · Academic staffs do not have the competences required for the utilization of online learning platforms in the study area among others. Based on the findings it was recommended that Staff and students should be trained on how to use the online learning resources for educational purpose, Tertiary institutions in the state should as a matter of urgency incorporate and enforce online learning in their policies and programmes. Government should support the various institutions to invest on internet facilities as well as create a conducive environment for effective online learning delivery.