Factors Affecting Student Engagement in Online Teaching and Learning: A Qualitative Case Study

Abstract

Students’ engagement is a decisive prerequisite for effective teaching and learning. Yet, the discussion on students’ engagement in online teaching and learning is still limited. In this study, we explore online lecturers’ perceptions of factors affecting student engagement in online teaching and learning offered at Musamus University, Indonesia. To reach this objective, we employed a qualitative case study using in-depth interviews with 10 online lecturers. Obtained data were thematically analyzed. Results of data analysis revealed that students’ lack of access to a personal computer or smartphone, as well as the internet, were found to be the most significant factors affecting their engagement in online teaching and learning, followed by their poor learning habits, lack of technology skills, and unfamiliarity with technology. Results of this study are crucial for the online lecturers to be more aware of the level of students’ access to a personal computer or smartphones and the internet, as well as incoming students’ digital skills and learning habits. Given that improving students’ engagement is not only the responsibility of online lecturers, university leaders, as the top administrators, should genuinely consider providing teaching and learning facilities, including computers and internet connection, for students in need.