The Technological Perception of Learners Towards Digital Learning in Public Universities During the Post COVID-19 Era in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya

Abstract

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) lead to a disruption of normal learning as a result of total lockdown in many countries. This has led to a move to online learning. Students’ opinion towards online learning such as unfavorable attitudes contribute largely to students lacking motivation and persistence. The objective of the study was to examine the technological perception of learners towards digital learning in public universities during the post COVID 19 era in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya. The theoretical framework used in the study was Classical Liberal Theory of Equal Opportunities. The study targeted selected public universities in Kenya with the target population being deans, Heads of department, lecturers and students. Descriptive research design was used in the study. Questionnaires and interview schedules were used as data collection tools. SPSS version 25 was used to analyze the data. The study findings established that the perception of learners has a negative and significant influence on digital learning in public universities during the post COVID 19 Era in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya (β1=-.038, p=0.008). The conclusion from the study was that facilitators' and students' attitudes undermine the digital learning process. The study further concluded that most students fear online due to the nature and content of the courses. The study also recommends that students should be trained on digital learning and encouraged to change their negative attitude towards digital learning.