Online Learning and Teaching during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Higher Education in Qatar

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic instigated a sudden upheaval in the realm of education, significantly impacting students and educators across the globe. The primary objective of this study was to delve into the experiences of both students (in the learning) and educators (in the teaching) amidst the emergency shift to online education within the higher education system during the COVID-19 pandemic, taking Qatar as a case study. This research adopted a quantitative approach, utilizing surveys as the primary data collection instrument. Data were collected separately from both students and educators, with a sample size of 660 students and 103 educators participating. In both surveys, a five-point Likert scale was employed to record responses. The principal findings of this research indicated that both students and educators exhibited a high level of agreement when it came to their perceptions of the digital tools employed during the educational transition and the accompanying support provided. Conversely, educators expressed a moderate level of agreement concerning their perspectives on learning materials and examination methods. The findings underscore the urgent need for higher education institutions (HEI) to strategically leverage digital tools. Recognizing the centrality of technology, this strategic utilization becomes imperative to foster a supportive and resilient learning environment for future uncertainty scenarios of lockdown and social distancing.