Perceptions towards E-learning in Times of COVID-19 Lockdown Phase in the Tertiary Education

Abstract

Abstract C OVID-19 pandemic had a huge effect on people's lives and lifestyles all over the world since its first spread in China between late 2019 and early 2020. The educational systems in all countries were among the first concerns that had to be dealt with to complete the academic year for students. The only and rapid solution was the use of e-learning. Thus, The advent of online learning (e-learning) has also encouraged the widespread acceptance of learner-centric education and other improvements in education practices. The present study aimed at exploring the perceptions of students and teachers on the use of e-learning during the COVID-19 lockdown phase. Participants represented samples of the students from various Egyptian private and governmental universities that depended on e-learning in completing the courses and evaluating students. Many challenges and difficulties faced different universities as it was the first time for some of them to depend on e-learning completely. Instruments included a teachers' reflection survey and a students' reflection survey. They were used to determine the perception of the respondents. Findings showed general agreement among teachers and students on using e-learning during and after the lockdown phase, despite some challenges.