The Role of Digital Technologies in Higher Education during the Coronavirus Pandemic: Insights from a Ghanaian University

Abstract

The emergence of the coronavirus disease saw the closure of schools as well as a hitch in the application of the face-to-face approach to classroom interaction. During this period, digital technologies presented a useful alternative. In the present study, we examined the use of digital technologies among students of the University of Cape Coast during the coronavirus pandemic. The study relied on a qualitative research design involving interviews with 10 students. The findings revealed that students used mainly mobile phones and laptops to facilitate learning during the pandemic. It was also found that these devices had essential software such as Moodle, Zoom, WhatsApp, and YouTube installed on them, which enabled interactions between course instructors and students. Again, we found that these technologies were useful in helping students develop information-seeking, typing and research skills. However, the use of these devices came with some challenges, such as the breakdown of the machines, expensive data bundles, and unfamiliarity with the operational procedures of software. Students adopted various coping strategies in dealing with these problems. Based on these findings, the study highlighted some implications for practice.