Exploring the E-learning experiences of students during Covid-19: a case study of the Khushal Khan Khattak University, Karak, Pakistan

Abstract

In Pakistan, E-Learning was never a part of the regular mode of education delivery in any institution. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all educational institutes, including colleges and universities, now offer online learning programs. E-Learning is internet or web-based learning now widely used in Pakistan due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This study explores the experiences of university students during COVID-19, and the case study is of Khushal Khan Khattak University in district Karak of Pakistan. A descriptive qualitative design was used by using a purposive sampling technique. Data was collected using semi-structured, face-to-face in-depth interviews. Thematic analysis was used to devise different themes based on the interviews taken. The study results revealed six major themes: Difficult in accessing E-Learning, Reservations about the shift to E-Learning, Learning Issues, Personal views and issues, Completion and comprehension of coursework, and challenges related to E-Learning. The study concluded that the abrupt remote online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic had impacted students at all stages of education.