The Significance of Adopting E-Learning in Institutions of Higher Learning during the COVID-19 Pandemic and Beyond

Abstract

The confirmation of the first case of the Covid-19 pandemic in Kenya on 13thMarch 2020 led to suspension of face-to-face learning and closure of all schools and institutions of higher learning. In order to avoid massive loss in the development of human capital with significant long-term economic and social implications, institutions of higher learning were asked to adopt alternative ways and means to face-to-face instructional methods to enable learning to continue. This study points out that E-Learning had been widely adopted by Institutions of higher learning worldwide prior to COVID-19 pandemic. To date Institutions of higher learning have continued to use E-Learning in a blended mode in order to reduce the potential of COVID-19 transmission. The development of Information Technology, acceptance of E-Learning system by learners and instructors, prior experience in the use of E-learning platforms and need for self directed learning are some of the factors that have accelerated the adoption of E-Learning by institutions of higher learning worldwide. The findings of this paper show that the adoption of E-Learning by institutions of higher learning has numerous benefits and advantages. This study recommends that institutions of higher learning should involve all stakeholders in the development and implementation of E-Learning systems, develop E-Learning policies, carry out capacity building and change management, avail continuous technical support to learners and educators so that e-Learning is widely accepted and adopted