An Analysis Of Challenges Facing E-Learning User Acceptance In University Of Nairobi And Kenyatta University

Abstract

Development of Information Communication Technology (ICT) is making many organizations propel toward a global economy. Most of the institutions of higher learning globally have adopted ICT as a tool of transforming education to match with the international standards. However, there is need to introduce innovation and diversity in education to make these institutions competitive globally and be at the nitch in terms of knowledge and skill delivery. This has prompted many institutions of higher learning to look for innovative ways (such as E-learning) to deliver the learning process. Though E-learning is a new concept, iinternationally it has gained a lot of momentum due to its flexibility in accommodating different preferred learning styles. However E-learning in Kenyan universities is still at its initial stages and has not been well embraced by students and lecturers despite being rolled out in a number of universities. This gives relevance to this study which aims at establishing challenges facing E-learning user acceptance in University of Nairobi and Kenyatta University. The study targeted a population of 140 comprising of ICT lecturers, ICT staff and students from the two universities, with a sample size of 104 generated using Yamane’s formula. The research adopted a descriptive design where a survey was used to collect both quantitative and qualitative data. Data was collected through questionnaires and interviews. Qualitative data was organised, coded, interpreted and presented in tabular format; while analysis of quantitative data was done using IBM SPSS software version 20.0, then presented using frequency tables, percentages and bar graphs. The study revealed that ICT infrastructure is not enough to reliably support E-learning. Further, study findings indicated that there is need for university students to be equipped with ICT knowledge before they are introduced to E-learning system. The study also revealed that university lecturers need to be adequately trained on E-learning systems. Finally, ICT technical staff requires continuous training on E-learning systems in order to acquire technical expertise required to support the system. The findings will help the management of the two universities and other stakeholders in putting measures and mechanisms in place that will enhance user acceptance of E-learning in universities; and provide a platform through which Kenyan graduates will be able to compete globally in the constantly changing global labour market.