The e-Leadership Challenge in Online Chemistry Learning in the Caribbean

Abstract

This study unearthed the prevailing attitudes and perceptions of Caribbean Higher Education Leaders towards online chemistry learning prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and puts forward a case for more formal training in e-leadership for Caribbean Higher Education Chemistry leaders. This is based on the findings of a mixed method study which showed inter alia that there are some differences in the attitudes and perceptions between Caribbean Higher Education Administrators and faculty with regard to online and face to face chemistry lectures. The study was conducted among four Caribbean Departments of Chemistry and utilized a modified Science Teachers and Online Instructional Concerns (STOIC) survey. The findings point to the need for a more calculated approach to the professional development of Caribbean Higher Education Leaders as well as the surmounting of several barriers which hinder the implementation of alternative modes of delivery for the teaching and learning of chemistry in the Caribbean.