Vol. 1 Issue 1 - 2024
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual learning has become a necessity. Nigerian higher institutions of learning have had to adapt to this new reality. This study assesses the availability and utilization of virtual learning and the challenges faced by these institutions. Descriptive survey research design was used for the study. A structured questionnaire was administered to 198 randomly selected Nigerian higher institution students. Three research questions were raised to guide the study. Frequency count, percentage, mean and standard deviation were used to analyze the data collected. Results show that the extent of availability of virtual learning technologies in the institutions is low (Mean = 1.25; SD = .677), and that the level of utilization of virtual learning technologies is low (Mean = 2.06, SD = .760). The results also show that lack of access to a computer/device, unreliable internet connection and lack of technical support were the major challenges facing the use of virtual learning technologies in Nigeria's higher educational institutions. Other problems found are difficulty experienced in navigating the Learning Management System (LMS) platform and inability to interact well with instructors/peers. It was recommended that institutions should ensure that students have access to computers or devices and reliable internet connections, that institutions should provide technical support services to assist students who encounter difficulties in using virtual learning technologies, and that instructors should be trained on how to effectively use virtual learning technologies to enhance student engagement and interaction.
Higher Education, Higher Educational Institutions, Leaning, Virtual Learning
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