Technical Challenges with E-Learning Tolls: A Bachelor of Arts in Multimedia Studies Case Study

Abstract

Technology is a key instrument in distance learning. The University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) has been utilizing distance learning tools to facilitate the learning process. The first batch of Bachelor of Arts in Multimedia Studies (BAMS) students, as well as the faculty, has been exploring these tools. Distance learning tools were used for effective communication, access to information, and different ways of fulfilling course requirements. However, both the students and faculty may have also experienced technical challenges.

This study aimed to assess the usage of the different distance learning tools (Moodle, Email, Yahoo! Messenger, Skype, Google Groups, WizIQ, Academiacs, and Facebook) by the senior students and faculty of the Bachelor of Arts in Multimedia Studies (BAMS) through Web surveys. From their usage of the distance learning tools, the technological challenges were determined.

The distance learning tools have been grouped according to the type of teaching and learning, and interaction. Type I refers to distance learning tools used for teaching and receiving (student-teacher interaction); Type II refers to facilitating and sharing (student-student interaction), and Type III refers to collaborative teaching and learning (collaborative interaction or student-teacher and student interaction).

The usage and technical challenges were classified into the access to distance learning online tools, functionality of the tools, interaction with the tools or effects of tools in the interaction of students and instructors, and attitude towards the tools.