REMOTE LEARNING AMID COVID-19 AND LOCKDOWN: LECTURERS’ PERSPECTIVES
Author(s): Mandlenkosi Richard Sibiya ,Lebogang Tiego Legodi, Fhatuwani Sengani
J. Ponte - Oct 2020 - Volume 76 - Issue 10
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2020.10.15
Abstract:
A detailed study on the impact of remote learning in response to COVID-19 and lockdown based
on the lecturers’ perspectives is described. The study uses a thematic analysis of the qualitative
method with the use of questionnaires. Several questionnaires were set and distributed to several
lecturers in different fields of study. The study has revealed that it is without gainsaying that
Remote learning in response to COVID-19 and lockdown has its pros and cons. Nevertheless,
respective researchers in their fields of study acknowledge that such challenges do not entirely
deviate from the already existing problems of formal teaching and learning. As such, universities
are left with the responsibility to tailor themselves in such a way that whether in a [in]formal
environment, teaching and learning must suit those who facilitate teaching as well as the students
who are meant to benefit from their respective programs which they are registered for. It therefore
concluded that informal learning could be possible but its effectiveness will be limited to a certain
extent. In the meantime, those fields that require practical activities are affected mostly. As a result,
there will be fewer demonstrations that could be done online, while the remaining could be done
after the lockdown or when the pandemic is under control or has a cure.
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