Authors :
Kavitha Naicker; Mari Van Wyk
Volume/Issue :
Volume 9 - 2024, Issue 12 - December
Google Scholar :
https://tinyurl.com/48wpaf9e
Scribd :
https://tinyurl.com/3hdnur6d
DOI :
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14613847
Abstract :
Since the introduction of technological
advancements in the 1990s, technology has permeated
various aspects of our homes and livelihoods, including
the educational system. This shift has led to a greater
reliance on web-based tools in education, further
accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, which
forced many institutions to transition to fully online
programs to ensure safety and continuity. In this context,
understanding students' perceptions of e-learning and the
challenges they face is crucial, as these factors
significantly impact the success of their academic
experiences and outcomes. Therefore, this study aimed to
understand Public Health students' perceptions,
experiences, and attitudes toward online learning, seeking
insights into their level of satisfaction on this mode of
education. The study involved 227 students in a South
African University's Postgraduate Diploma in Public
Health program. All students received a study
information link and the Perceptions towards e-learning
Questionnaire, with their e-learning perceptions
evaluated through descriptive and inferential statistics,
covering aspects such as attitude, social influences,
effectiveness, accessibility, ease of use, and satisfaction.
The study found robust support for online learning, with
98% preferring it and 97% showing increased interest.
While 76% valued in-person interactions, 94% noted
improved work-school-family balance with online
learning. It proved effective, with 90% endorsing benefits
for test preparation and 79% favoring it over in-class
learning. Accessibility was positive, as 91% reported no
information loss, and 86% faced no internet access issues.
Regarding ease of use, students preferred the learning
management system, choosing online over face-to-face.
Overall, students reported enhanced computer skills and
high e-learning satisfaction. The study indicates online
learning effectively achieves educational goals, providing
convenience, enhancing engagement, and boosting overall
satisfaction. Surveyed individuals generally express high
acceptance and contentment with online education.
Keywords :
E-learning, Perceptions, Satisfaction.
References :
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Since the introduction of technological
advancements in the 1990s, technology has permeated
various aspects of our homes and livelihoods, including
the educational system. This shift has led to a greater
reliance on web-based tools in education, further
accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, which
forced many institutions to transition to fully online
programs to ensure safety and continuity. In this context,
understanding students' perceptions of e-learning and the
challenges they face is crucial, as these factors
significantly impact the success of their academic
experiences and outcomes. Therefore, this study aimed to
understand Public Health students' perceptions,
experiences, and attitudes toward online learning, seeking
insights into their level of satisfaction on this mode of
education. The study involved 227 students in a South
African University's Postgraduate Diploma in Public
Health program. All students received a study
information link and the Perceptions towards e-learning
Questionnaire, with their e-learning perceptions
evaluated through descriptive and inferential statistics,
covering aspects such as attitude, social influences,
effectiveness, accessibility, ease of use, and satisfaction.
The study found robust support for online learning, with
98% preferring it and 97% showing increased interest.
While 76% valued in-person interactions, 94% noted
improved work-school-family balance with online
learning. It proved effective, with 90% endorsing benefits
for test preparation and 79% favoring it over in-class
learning. Accessibility was positive, as 91% reported no
information loss, and 86% faced no internet access issues.
Regarding ease of use, students preferred the learning
management system, choosing online over face-to-face.
Overall, students reported enhanced computer skills and
high e-learning satisfaction. The study indicates online
learning effectively achieves educational goals, providing
convenience, enhancing engagement, and boosting overall
satisfaction. Surveyed individuals generally express high
acceptance and contentment with online education.
Keywords :
E-learning, Perceptions, Satisfaction.