Adapting to the New Normal: Asynchronous Learning as a Promising Solution for Post-Covid-19 Challenges in Jordanian Universities - A Case Study of the American University of Madaba (AUM)

Abstract

AbstractIn the post Covid-19 time, educational trends have changed aiming at meeting the rising challenges which have a crucial impact on the learning environment. Asynchronous learning has become an alternative approach to traditional approaches. Investigating the challenges and opportunities has become a central topic of major concern. To this end, a two-fold approach, namely, an interview and a questionnaire, was utilized. In particular, the two surveys used included: an open-ended survey in which 30 faculty members answered the barriers and opportunities that they face. Whereas the second survey was built upon the responses of the first survey using the Likert scale. The participants were 72 from different faculties at the American University of Madaba (AUM) in Jordan. Statistical analyses were used to find answers to the questions of the study. The findings of the analysis of the three major themes reported the following results: first, asynchronous learning is flexible and allows the ability to both teachers and students to move in their teaching and learning process at their own pace. Second, asynchronous learning is an affordable and practical teaching modality. Third, the inability to adapt to asynchronous learning and the need for specialized training seem to top the challenges AUM’s instructors encounter.