Embracing Online Learning: The Readiness and Perceived Challenges among Health Sciences Distance Learners
https://doi.org/10.47836/mjmhs.18.6.33
- Author:
Siti Khuzaimah Ahmad Sharoni
1
;
Nordianna Seman
1
;
Nurhazirah Razali
2
;
Zufazlizan Zamri
3
Author Information
1. Centre of Nursing Studies, Faculty of Health Science, Universiti Teknologi MARA, 42300 Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
2. Nursing Unit, Medical Respiratory Institute, Jalan Pahang, 50590 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
3. Nursing Unit, Institute Kajisaraf Tunku Abdul Rahman, Jalan Pahang, 50586 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Digital learning, Distance learners, Health sciences, Online learning, Online learning readiness
- From:Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences
2022;18(No.6):251-258
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Introduction: The shifting of conventional to online learning is prominent in our millennial era. The online pedagogy
is dynamic in creating knowledge and simultaneously engaging learners with experts beyond boundaries. Our study
aims to determine the readiness of distance learners in embracing online learning and their perceived challenge
in accomplishing their academic journey. Methods: We employed the quantitative study design with a cross-sectional survey and this study was conducted in a public university. The health sciences learners who are currently
undertaking their distance learning program were recruited by convenience sampling (N=128). The Online Learning
Readiness Scale (OLRS) was adopted with its internal consistency ranging from 0.77 to 0.95 for five dimensions of
measure. Results: Our results indicate a high level of online learning readiness. In addition, the highest level of readiness in the dimension of computer/internet self-efficacy whereas the least level was the learners’ control. Sixty-eight
percent of learners reported poor internet connectivity as the main challenge in online learning. Moreover, we found
that gender, age, and the learners’ program were not the significant factors affecting learners’ online learning readiness (p>.05). Conclusion: Our study revealed a high extent of online learning readiness among distance learners
that display constructive embracing of current educational technology. Nevertheless, considering the poor internet
connection, communication infrastructure needs to be further developed to bridge the gap between millennial learners and the Internet of Things (IoT).
- Full text:11.2022my1383.pdf
