Technology and the Higher Education Sector’s Response to the Covid-19 Pandemic: The Experiences of Adult Learners in the University of Ghana

J. K. Boateng, J. Boateng

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

The coronavirus pandemic has brought to light the unpreparedness of many African Higher Education Institutions to migrate online. This study aimed at examining how the University of Ghana employed in the response to the Covid-19 Pandemic. Drawing from The Technology Acceptance Theory and the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge Framework, the study employed the mixed-methods approach (quantitative with sample size of 120 respondents and qualitative with sample size of 10). The study focused on final year students at the University of Ghana who were called back to campus to finish final examinations between 15th of June and 15th of July 2020 in the heat of the Covid-19 pandemic in Ghana. Results showed that, specific technologies and forms of social media, such as Zoom, Sakai LMS, WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter and resources from the UG online were identified particularly, as helpful. The radio universe on campus was mentioned as being instrumental and was seen as suitable form of communication to students and faculty on campus before and after the lockdowns. In terms of challenges, students mentioned difficulties with downloads of study contents, connectivity, feedback provision, interactivity, effective engagement and being overwhelmed with lots of contents in a very short period, which resulted in anxiety, dissatisfaction and poor performance in some of the courses.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationLifelong Learning
Subtitle of host publicationPerspectives, Opportunities and Challenges
PublisherNova Science Publishers, Inc.
Pages111-130
Number of pages20
ISBN (Electronic)9798886975796
ISBN (Print)9798886975512
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2023

Keywords

  • Covid-19
  • adult learners
  • pandemic
  • pedagogy
  • technology

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