Assessment of COVID-19 E-learning Strategies: A Case Study from Zimbabwe
Farai Chinangure *
Bindura University of Science Education, P. O. Box 1020, Off Trojan Road, Bindura, Zimbabwe.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The aim of the qualitative study was to assess the effectiveness of e-learning coping strategies among 43 social work first year students at a chosen university in Masvingo province, Zimbabwe, during COVID 19. Observations, questionnaires and in-depth interviews held with the 43 students and 6 lecturers elicited qualitative data that was analyzed thematically. The survey results revealed that students who were being introduced to university education were used to face-to-face teaching and learning strategies and their attitude towards online teaching and learning strategies were generally negative. The study established that weaning off students from face to face strategies to a more student-centered, interactive strategy that offered opportunities for reflective thinking and deep understanding of concepts was dependent on their attitudes and possession of resources to support online teaching and learning approaches. The study recommended the institution to intensify training of staff, enrich its online library with E- resources and use more of home -grown applications that were easier to use. There was a need for more free Wi-Fi zones to cater for disadvantaged students. From the study a model to infuse pedagogy, theories of learning and teaching and integration of e-learning strategies was mooted.
Keywords: E –learning; online, coping, strategy, training, student –centered, collaboration