Online Learning Experience of University Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic Quarantine in Greece

Abstract

Purpose. The aim of the study was to develop and validate an instrument for exploring students'skills and beliefs about online learning experience during COVID-19 pandemic and to investigate sociodemographic characteristics associated with students’ skills and believes of online learning. Methods. A 15-item questionnaire was developed and administered to 1,103 undergraduate students at University of West Attica and University of Ioannina during 2021. The survey requested demographic and socioeconomic information and information related to online learning beliefs and skills during the COVID-19 pandemic. Factor analysis, estimation of factors’ reliability and validity and univariable and multivariable linear regression analysis were carried out using Stata 13.1 and SPSS 23.0 programs. Results. A total of 1.103 valid questionnaires were retrieved. 73.6% of the students were females, 56.8% aged 18-21 years old and 95.9% had Greek nationality. Factor analysis identified 2 factors, interpreted as “general beliefs about online learning,” and “acquisition of skills”. The Cronbach alpha of the instrument was 0.934. Multivariable regression analysis showed that males, students aged > 21 years old, those with Greek nationality and those who were very satisfied with their living conditions during quarantine reported having more confidence in prerequisite “skills”. Moreover, students aged > 21 years old, those studying non-health sciences, those who were very satisfied with their living conditions and those whose decision concerning their place of residence was influenced by health reasons related to the pandemic and financial reasons, had more positive “beliefs” about online learning. Conclusions. Our study will help decision-makers understand students' attitudes and motivation toward online learning and improve ongoing online courses.