The Impact of Online Learning on NDUM Students During COVID-19

Abstract

One of the impacts of the COVID-19 outbreak was the closure of numerous education facilities, including schools and universities. Due to the closing of these institutions, the method used for teaching and learning changed from physical face-to-face lecturing to online contactless learning. This helps curb the spread of infections while ensuring that teaching and learning continue as usually as possible. However, questions arise not only about the effectiveness of online learning but also about the impact of online learning on education stakeholders, namely students and educators. This study aims to assess the effects of the lockdown during COVID-19 on National Defense University of Malaysia (NDUM) students. A link pointing to a custom-built questionnaire was forwarded to students through email and WhatsApp. At the end of the survey period, 445 students responded to the questionnaire. The simple percentage distribution was employed to evaluate the student's learning status and their expectations. Based on the analysis, during the lockdown, students faced issues involving technical, time management, social interactions, and surrounding (home-related) issues. In contrast, during the lockdown, students were also keen to learn new technological skills and favorable towards the ability to replay lectures and class materials. These valuable insights on the impact of online learning on students are essential due to the advancement of technology in education, not only in Malaysia but in other nations as well.