Analysis of Barriers in Conduct of Lab Based Courses in Remote Teaching Learning Paradigm

Abstract

Many countries are implementing distance learning in response to the Covid19 pandemic. Distance learning helped learners continue their studies as schools and universities were closed due to the pandemic. The purpose of this study is to analyze the impact of Covid-19 lockdown on learners' academic performance. This research focuses on the challenges faced by distance learning learners. The purpose of this study is to identify barriers to distance learning. This study applies the DEMATEL (Decision Making Test and Evaluation Institute) approach to assess the barriers faced by learners in distance learning. The DEMATEL strategy is being used to identify the key factors by identifying the interrelationships between the various factors. A quantitative survey method using a structured questionnaire was carried out. The questionnaire was administered to a cohort of 54 undergraduate engineering students of third semester (2nd year) pursuing Bachelor of Technology (Information Technology) in India. This study found that motivation, social interaction, and resource costs were assessed in causal groups with RiCi scores of 0.332, 0.1774, and 0.113, respectively. Technical concerns and administrative issues are categorized in the effect group with Ri-Ci values of -0.333 and -0.287 respectively and are the most important criteria based on first and second highest Ri+Ci values of 0.646524 and 0.59817, respectively. Our findings reveal that motivation is the most important barrier in remote teaching learning. A sense of self-motivation can be induced by organizing workshops, practical sessions and grooming sessions. The study would benefit academic institutions and learners as it would help them to enrich the remote teaching learning process.