The Challenges and Current Status of E-learning in Ethiopian Higher Education Institutions: Case of Mekelle University
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Date
2011-06
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The aim of this research is to assess the current status of e-learning application in
Mekelle University, identify its main challenges and factors that play major role to its
success and provide a recommendation for a successful implementation of e-learning
technology in HEIs of Ethiopia. Purposive sampling technique was employed and
primary data was collected by means of structured questionnaires and interviews. The
study population was academic staff, administrative officers and key informants of the
Institute of Technology and College of Health Science of Mekelle University. The
research identified that the current status of e-learning in the institution is in its infant
stage. No ICT policy at work is found in the institution. As the finding shows availability
of hardware, faster Internet connectivity, improved software, reliable electricity and open
source software makes e-learning more effective. Moreover, the result of the study
indicated that there are several factors that hinder the implementation of e-learning at the
institutions. These include infrastructure problem, lack of awareness and motivation, lack
of ICT skill, lack of training facilities, lack of administrative management and technical
support and resistance of individuals to change.
The results of this research shows that effective implementation of e-learning could be
possible through policy consideration that favors e-learning, creation of awareness and
motivation among the university community, using open source software, skills
development and trainings, management support, resource accessibility and availability.
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Keywords
E-learning