Understanding Challenges Faced in Online Teaching and Learning Among Malaysian Universities' Instructors During COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This study aims to identify the challenges faced by instructors when conducting online teaching and learning (OTL) entirely using the university's learning management system (LMS) during a global crisis - the Coronavirus disease outbreak. Additionally, the present study proposes strategies for mitigating the challenges. In-depth interviews were conducted with instructors from selected public and private universities in central Malaysia. The fields of teaching involved in this study are Information System, Information Technology, Logistics Management, Accounting and Finance, Business Administration as well as Marketing. Apart from the interviews, the use of LMS and instructor-student communication within the system were observed. This study found several challenges faced by the instructors, which include ineffective real-time communications, technology incompetence, low rate of interactivity and lack of understanding of learner's characteristics and attitude. The possible strategies that are likely could help to mitigate these challenges are adding relevant functions and features in current LMS such as real-time communication, collaborative tools and social function. Additionally, university should also provide resources and professional training on developing material that is in a digital format for the instructors. The findings of this study contribute to the body of knowledge relevant to online teaching and learning. Practically, the findings from this study may increase the understanding and awareness about the challenges among ministries, universities, instructors, students, and system developers. Thus, relevant assistance and solutions can be provided to further improve and ensure the effectiveness of conducting OTL in similar circumstances.