Remote learning via video conferencing technologies : Implications for research and practice

Abstract

Following the unprecedented outbreak of the Coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19), educators and students have shifted from conventional face-to-face lectures to fully virtual sessions that were delivered via video conferencing software. This research investigates the facilitating conditions and the students' perceptions toward using these interactive resources to continue their learning journey. The data was gathered through a structured questionnaire among 777 students in tertiary education. The survey instrument comprised valid measures that are frequently utilized in academia, to evaluate the individuals' acceptance of interactive educational technologies. A partial least squares (PLS) approach revealed that there were very significant factors that were predicting the students' dispositions to utilize synchronous learning programs. The findings underlined the importance of providing appropriate facilitating conditions to improve perceptions and attitudes toward interactive conferencing software. These results reflect the latest developments, as COVID-19 has inevitably accelerated the digital transformation in the realms of education. This contribution implies that students adapted well to a new normal. It confirmed that they are willing to participate and engage in virtual meetings through video conferencing programs