Academic Journal
COVID-19 and Online Learning Experiences of Solomon Islands Students at the University of the South Pacific
| Title: | COVID-19 and Online Learning Experiences of Solomon Islands Students at the University of the South Pacific |
|---|---|
| Authors: | Dorovolomo, Jeremy, Rodie, Patricia, Fito'o, Billy, Rafiq, Loriza Zinnie |
| Source: | Waikato Journal of Education. 2021 26:89-102. |
| Abstract: | This study aims to investigate the experiences of Solomon Islands students during the shift to online, remote teaching during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. It utilises the "tokstori" to collect data from 16 Solomon Islands students of the University of the South Pacific's (USP) Suva and Honiara campuses. It is framed and analysed data using Khan's eight dimensions of gauging successful e-learning experiences. Prior to COVID-19, many of the courses at the USP were offered in blended mode, which encompasses both online and face-to-face delivery. However, with a sudden move to fully online offerings, and the associated fears resulting from the unknowns of COVID-19, this was disruptive and traumatic for many students. However, analysis identified several key factors aiding student success including many Solomon Islands students being able to eventually cope with the disruption and displayed independence and resilience. It is also found that Solomon Island students got to experience new applications and tools such as, for example, having to be in Zoom or having to sit an online exam. This study has potential to inform higher education institutes (HEIs) in the Pacific Islands and beyond, and the need to carefully navigate the practical realities of the islands in the interaction between digital technologies, instructors and students to facilitate online learning post-pandemic. |
| Language: | English |
| Availability: | Wilf Malcolm Institute of Educational Research. Division of Education, University of Waikato, Private Bag 3105, Hamilton 3240, New Zealand. Tel: +64-7-858-5171; Fax: +64-7-838-4712; e-mail: wmier@waikato.ac.nz; Web site: https://wje.org.nz/index.php/WJE |
| Peer Reviewed: | Y |
| Page Count: | 15 |
| Publication Date: | 2021 |
| Document Type: | Journal Articles Reports - Research |
| Education Level: | Higher Education Postsecondary Education |
| Descriptors: | COVID-19, Pandemics, Online Courses, Electronic Learning, Emergency Programs, Distance Education, Technology Integration, Internet, Student Experience, Graduate Students, Undergraduate Students, Coping, Resilience (Psychology), Independent Study, Indigenous Knowledge, Pacific Islanders, Foreign Countries |
| Geographic Terms: | Fiji, Solomon Islands |
| ISSN: | 2382-0373 |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2021 |
| Accession Number: | EJ1314822 |
| ISSN: | 2382-0373 |
| Database: | ERIC |
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