E-learning experiences of students in Pakistan during COVID-19: Barriers and perceptions

Abstract

The literature reveals that there has been significant research regarding online learning during the pandemic outbreak. This research project was conducted to investigate the experiences of university students by highlighting a few key barriers and perceptions to e-learning in Pakistan. A sample of 253 (age range: 17–31 years) students was recruited through a convenient sampling technique. According to participants the crucial online barriers included social interaction, family support, time, and motivation for studies. The majority of students were satisfied with the internet access and quality of online learning. In addition, the most intensively used web-platforms included Zoom, WhatsApp, Microsoft Teams, and Meet by Pakistani students. Furthermore, the findings revealed that students who sleep after midnight ( M = 51.46, SD = 9.61) and wake-up around noon ( M = 52, SD = 9.09) experience more online education barriers in comparison to students who sleep ( M = 40.33, SD = 16.75) and rise early ( M = 49.36, SD = 11.86). Hence, the findings of the current study might be helpful in addressing barriers and challenges faced by universities and the Higher Education Commission during such pandemic outbreaks.