Students' perceptions on the adoption of online communication channels within a South African higher learning institution

Abstract

This study sought to establish students’ perceptions regarding the adoption of online communication channels for virtual learning at the University of Johannesburg. The study also explored the efficacy of online communication channels used for teaching and learning, as virtual learning was thrust upon the education sector owing to the Covid-19 pandemic. Online learning still encounters challenges within the South African context. The study used a quantitative method. The target population was 80 students at the University of Johannesburg in the School of Communication. The participants were selected through simple random sampling. Data was gathered using a web-based questionnaire and analysed with descriptive statistics using SPSS and MS Excel. The results show that online communication channels were improving teaching and learning. In addition, the study found that loadshedding was not affecting virtual learning. The study concludes that virtual learning is an effective method for delivering teaching and learning.