E-learning Challenges in the Era of Covid-19: The Georgian Case

Abstract

Digital literacy is an essential skill for learning, living and working, with the Internet remaining a main part of modern life. The Covid-19 pandemic has made the issue of effective use of information and communication tools and acquired digital skills of outmost importance and urgency. During the pandemic, higher education around the world has largely shifted to a distance/online learning format and Georgia's higher education system was no exception. The swift conversion challenged students and educators alike. Method: This descriptive study inquired N=2160 students from 5 top universities in Georgia about the challenges of online education, their learning experience during the pandemic and their recommendations for future opportunities. Results: The 21 items online survey used for data collection produced quantitative and qualitative results from a majority female body of participants. Even though they had no previous online learning experience, the vast majority of students prefer some online format of teaching and learning, as imperfect as it proved to be and quickly implemented during the pandemic. As the university mandates the creation of a student-friendly environment and relevant services to inform and support students with low social status and students with disabilities, it became a great challenge for Georgian universities to provide socially disadvantaged students with the resources needed for E-learning. Numerous suggestions for improvement of the online teaching experience and performance were offered.