Synchronous Learning in Institutions of Higher Learning during COVID-19: Lessons from Developing Countries

Abstract

The coronavirus outbreak, known as COVID-19, is one example of a pandemic that the world is currently grappling with. The effects were disruptive in both developing and developed countries. The teaching and learning in Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL) in developing countries were not spared. The study focused on exploring the effects of synchronous teaching and learning and analysing how quality teaching and learning were achieved. An exploratory design study was used in the study. Data was collected using qualitative interviews. The study found that several IHL adopted synchronous teaching and learning. To ensure a smooth transition from face-to-face to online platforms, regular training must be offered to lecturers and students. Institutions of higher learning must lobby policymakers and IHL managers to fund ICT infrastructure in the colleges and universities for ease of adoption of a new method of teaching and learning.