The reality of distance learning in light of the coronavirus pandemic from viewpoints of students of the College of Basic Education in the State of Kuwait: Descriptive Analytical study

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Curriculum and Instruction Department

2 Curriculum and Teaching Methods Department

Abstract

This study explored the viewpoints of students in the College of Basic Education in the State of Kuwait (boys and girls) about distance learning during the coronavirus pandemic. To achieve the objectives of this study, a mixed-research methodology was used through the use of a questionnaire (quantitative approach) and personal interviews (qualitative approach). The research was applied to a random sample of College of Basic Education students in the State of Kuwait (boys and girls) through the completion of 728 questionnaires, followed by semi-structured interviews conducted with 19 students. The results of the study showed a discrepancy in the students' views about distance education, which is a new experience for them: most students see that teaching about distance learning develops their skills of research, exploration and self-learning. However, the results also show that there are a number of obstacles that students faced during distance learning lectures, such as technical problems related to the Internet, interruption of communication, and the lack of some electronic devices for some students. In addition to some academic obstacles, such as a difficulty in understanding some subjects, there was a lack of sufficient training to use educational platforms in distance education.
This study provides some recommendations that will contribute to the development of the educational process in the future by taking advantage of technological development and integrating traditional education with e-learning, and providing adequate training for students on the use of modern technology in the educational process.

Keywords

Main Subjects