The effect of online education on the learning engagement of undergraduate students in Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State
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- NGN 5000
Background of the Study
Online education has revolutionized the delivery of higher education by integrating digital platforms into academic instruction. At Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, Kaduna State, the adoption of online education has become increasingly prevalent, particularly as the institution adapts to global trends and the demand for flexible learning solutions (Chukwu, 2023). The virtual learning environment offers diverse instructional methods, including synchronous lectures, discussion forums, and interactive multimedia, all designed to foster a more engaging learning experience. Despite these innovations, the level of student engagement remains a critical factor in the overall success of online education (Danjuma, 2024).
Undergraduate students at Ahmadu Bello University are experiencing a transformative shift from traditional classroom settings to a digital learning landscape. This transition has sparked considerable debate regarding its impact on learning engagement. On one hand, online platforms offer enhanced accessibility to resources and the potential for personalized learning experiences. On the other, issues such as limited interaction, technical difficulties, and reduced immediate feedback may adversely affect student motivation and engagement (Emeka, 2023). The university has implemented various digital tools to encourage active learning; however, the effectiveness of these tools is subject to the level of student digital literacy and the robustness of technological infrastructure (Fadila, 2024).
In this context, learning engagement is viewed as a multidimensional construct that includes behavioral, cognitive, and emotional components. The increased reliance on digital communication in online education necessitates a re-examination of traditional engagement paradigms. Researchers argue that while digital platforms can support dynamic interaction and collaborative learning, they may also lead to passive participation if not strategically designed (Ganiyu, 2023). Moreover, the socio-cultural dynamics unique to the student population at Ahmadu Bello University further complicate the engagement process, highlighting the need for tailored pedagogical approaches that resonate with the diverse learning styles of undergraduates (Halima, 2024). The rapid evolution of online education calls for empirical investigations that assess its impact on student engagement and identify areas for improvement, ensuring that academic institutions can fully harness the potential of digital learning environments (Ibrahim, 2023).
Statement of the Problem
Despite significant investments in online education infrastructure, undergraduate students at Ahmadu Bello University have exhibited varying levels of learning engagement. While some students actively participate and benefit from digital tools, others demonstrate a marked disengagement that may impede academic success (Jamil, 2023). The challenges include insufficient interactive content, inadequate digital literacy among students, and technical disruptions that hinder real-time participation. Additionally, the absence of a robust support system to address these issues exacerbates the problem, leading to a fragmented learning experience (Khadija, 2024).
The university’s rapid transition to online education, though necessary, has not been accompanied by comprehensive measures to ensure sustained engagement. This has resulted in a noticeable decline in student interaction during virtual classes and diminished enthusiasm towards academic pursuits. The digital format may inadvertently foster a sense of isolation, which further diminishes the effectiveness of learning engagement strategies (Ladi, 2023). Moreover, the disparity in access to stable internet connections and modern devices among students compounds the problem, making it difficult to achieve a uniformly engaging learning environment. The persistent gaps in interaction and participation raise concerns regarding the overall quality of online education and its capacity to foster a collaborative academic community (Musa, 2024).
Addressing these challenges is crucial for optimizing the online education experience at Ahmadu Bello University. A deeper understanding of the factors influencing student engagement will inform the development of more effective pedagogical practices and technological solutions that can bridge the existing gaps. This study therefore seeks to examine the underlying causes of reduced engagement and propose measures that can enhance the quality of online learning for undergraduate students (Nneka, 2023).
Objectives of the Study
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To evaluate the effect of online education on undergraduate students’ learning engagement.
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To identify the challenges that hinder active engagement in online classes.
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To propose strategies for enhancing digital engagement among undergraduates.
Research Questions
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How does online education influence learning engagement among undergraduate students at Ahmadu Bello University?
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What are the major barriers to active engagement in the online learning environment?
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Which strategies can be implemented to improve engagement in online classes?
Research Hypotheses
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H1: There is a positive relationship between the quality of online educational tools and undergraduate learning engagement.
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H2: Technical challenges significantly reduce student engagement in online learning environments.
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H3: Enhanced instructor support and interactive content increase undergraduate engagement in online classes.
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it explores the direct effects of online education on undergraduate engagement at Ahmadu Bello University. By identifying barriers and proposing effective strategies, the research contributes to refining digital pedagogies that promote active learning. The outcomes will serve as a valuable resource for educators, administrators, and policymakers aiming to optimize online educational practices and foster a more interactive and supportive learning environment for students (Okeke, 2024).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses exclusively on the learning engagement of undergraduate students at Ahmadu Bello University in relation to online education. It examines the pedagogical, technical, and socio-cultural factors affecting digital engagement, excluding factors beyond the university setting and other forms of remote education.
Definitions of Terms
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Online Education: A mode of delivering education through internet-based platforms that facilitate virtual learning.
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Learning Engagement: The degree of attention, curiosity, and interest that students exhibit in the learning process.
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Digital Literacy: The ability to effectively use digital tools and platforms for learning and communication.
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