Exploring Student Perceptions of Engagement in Online Learning within Higher Education Institutions: A Comprehensive Systematic Review

  • Nthabiseng Khoalenyane Languages and Social Sciences Education, University of Zululand, South Africa
  • Oluwatoyin Ayodele Ajani Languages and Social Sciences Education, University of Zululand, South Africa

Abstract

The expansion of online learning in higher education has fundamentally changed how students engage with education. This systematic review aims to uncover students' perceptions of engagement in online learning. Synthesising diverse research provides a comprehensive understanding of factors shaping student viewpoints and interactions. The review examines perceptions, challenges, strategies, and implications of engagement, significantly enhancing online learning environments. The study adopted social cognitive theory as a theoretical framework to provide an understanding of the phenomenon. Methodologically, the review employs a rigorous approach, searching critical databases for relevant articles. Factors influencing engagement emerge, including student-centred design, seamless technology integration, collaborative interactions, intrinsic motivation, and timely feedback. Challenges, such as technical issues and time management, are also revealed, impacting engagement. Effective strategies are identified, encompassing active learning, personalised pathways, virtual communities, transparent communication, and continuous feedback. Implications extend to educational practice and policy, emphasising the need to address challenges, optimise strategies, and create dynamic online ecosystems aligned with student needs. The review emphasises the policy discourse's role in fostering engagement and effective online education strategies. In conclusion, this systematic review analyses student perceptions regarding engagement in online higher education. It explores factors, challenges, strategies, and implications, serving as a valuable resource for lecturers, researchers, and policymakers seeking to enhance online learning and promote student success in the digital age.

Literaturhinweise

Abdullah, N.; Zainun, M.; Mahizer, H.; Amir, H.; Mohd Ridhuan, M. J.; Che Siti, H.A.; & Che Abdul, K.(2022). The confirmatory factor analysis of science creative pedagogy (scp) model. International Journal of Advanced and Applied Sciences, 9(10), 26-32. https://doi.org/10.21833/ijaas.2022.10.004.
Afolabi, O. S., & Ajani, O. A. (2023). South African rural students’ adoption and use of learning management systems. International Journal of Research in Business and Social Science (2147-4478), 12(4), 410-421.
Ahmad, A. (2022). Management strategies of school principals in developing teachers' professional competency to improve the quality of education in smk kesehatan darus salam lhokseumawe aceh. International Journal of Business Economics & Management, 5(3), 238-245. https://doi.org/10.21744/ijbem.v5n3.1960.
Ajani, O. A. (2022). Students’ Perceptions of Online Learning During the COVID-19 Lockdown: The Realities of Social Justice for Rural University Students. Impacts of COVID-19 Pandemic’s Distance Learning on Students and Teachers in Schools and in Higher Education, International Perspectives, 126.
Ajani, O. A. (2023). Challenges mitigating against effective adoption and usage of e-learning in curriculum delivery in south african universities. International Journal of Innovative Technologies in Social Science, (2 (38)).
Ajani, O. A., & Khumalo, N. P. (2023). Aftermaths of the Post-Covid-19 Pandemic Experiences: Assessing and Repositioning South African Higher Education. International Journal of Social Science Research and Review, 6(6), 674-683.
Akıllı, M. (2023). Does science literacy affect self-efficacy in science teaching? an analysis with structural equation modelling. Revista Romaneasca Pentru Educatie Multidimensionala, 15(2), 487-502. https://doi.org/10.18662/rrem/15.2/745.
Aktaş, E. and Yurt, S. (2017). Effects of digital story on academic achievement, learning motivation and retention among university students. International Journal of Higher Education, 6(1), 180. https://doi.org/10.5430/ijhe.v6n1p180.
Al-Abdullatif, A. and Gameil, A. (2021). The effect of digital technology integration on students’ academic performance through project-based learning in an e-learning environment. International Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning (Ijet), 16(11), 189. https://doi.org/10.3991/ijet.v16i11.19421.
Baloran, E., Hernan, J., & Taoy, J. (2021). Course satisfaction and student engagement in online learning amid covid-19 pandemic: a structural equation model. Turkish Online Journal of Distance Education, 1-12. https://doi.org/10.17718/tojde.1002721.
Bandura, A. (2000). Exercise of human agency through collective efficacy. Current directions in psychological science, 9(3), 75-78.
Basar, T. (2022). The effect of digital stories on 3rd graders’ achievement, attitudes, and motivation in science lesson. Participatory Educational Research, 9(5), 127-142. https://doi.org/10.17275/per.22.107.9.5.
Batisai, K., Makhafola, K., & Maoba, P. (2022). Rethinking inclusion in higher education: lessons for the south african academic space. South African Journal of Higher Education. https://doi.org/10.20853/36-6-4758.
Bolliger, D. U., & Halupa, C. (2018). Online student perceptions of engagement, transactional distance, and outcomes. Distance Education, 39(3), 299-316. https://doi.org/10.1080/01587919.2018.1476845.
Chomunorwa, S. and Mugobo, V. (2023). Challenges of e-learning adoption in south african public schools: learners’ perspectives. Journal of Education and E-Learning Research, 10(1), 80-85. https://doi.org/10.20448/jeelr.v10i1.4423.
Chukwunemerem, O. (2023). Lessons from self-directed learning activities and helping university students think critically. Journal of Education and Learning, 12(2), 79. https://doi.org/10.5539/jel.v12n2p79.
Department of Education Science and Training (DEST). (2005). Student motivation and engagement, Schooling issues digest. Retrieved July 14, 2023, from http://www.dest.gov.au/sectors/school_education/publications_resources/schooling_issues_digest/schooling_issues_digest_motivation_engagement.htm.
Fleur, J. and Dlamini, R. (2022). Towards learner-centric pedagogies: technology-enhanced teaching and learning in the 21st century classroom. Journal of Education, (88), 1-17. https://doi.org/10.17159/2520-9868/i88a01.
Fredricks, J. A., Filsecker, M., & Lawson, M. A. (2016) Student engagement, context, and adjustment: Addressing definitional, measurement, and methodological issues, Learning and Instruction, 43, 1-4, ISSN 0959-4752, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.learninstruc.2016.02.002.
Gamede, B. T., Ajani, O. A., & Afolabi, O. S. (2022). Exploring the adoption and usage of learning management system as alternative for curriculum delivery in South African higher education institutions during Covid-19 lockdown. International Journal of Higher Education, 11(1), 71-84.
Gillis, A., & Krull, L. M. (2020). COVID-19 remote learning transition in spring 2020: class structures, student perceptions, and inequality in college courses. Teaching Sociology, 48(4), 283-299.
Grant, C., & Osanloo, A. (2014). Understanding, selection, and integrating a theoretical framework in dissertation research: Creating the blueprint for your “house.” Adm Issues J: Connect Educ Pract Res. 4:12–26.
Gunasekara, A., Turner, K., Fung, C., & Stough, C. (2022). Impact of lecturers’ emotional intelligence on students’ learning and engagement in remote learning spaces: a cross-cultural study. Australasian Journal of Educational Technology, 38(4), 112-126. https://doi.org/10.14742/ajet.7848.
Hamzah, M., Juraime, F., & Mansor, A. (2016). Malaysian principals’ technology leadership practices and curriculum management. Creative Education, 07 (07), 922-930. https://doi.org/10.4236/ce.2016.77096.
İlhan, G., Kaba, G., & Sin, M. (2021). Usage of digital comics in distance learning during covid-19. International Journal on Social and Education Sciences, 3(1), 161-179. https://doi.org/10.46328/ijonses.106.
Iqmaulia, K., & Usman, O. (2019). Needs Influence, Reward, Interest and Motivation Learning Environment on Learning Motivation in Higher Education. Reward, Interest and Motivation Learning Environment on Learning Motivation in Higher Education (December 27, 2019).
Kavrayici, C. (2020). Communication skills and classroom management: The mediating role of problem-solving skills. Journal of Teacher Education and Educators, 9(1), 125-137.
Khlaif, Z., Salha, S., & Kouraïchi, B. (2021). Emergency remote learning during covid-19 crisis: students’ engagement. Education and Information Technologies, 26(6), 7033-7055. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10639-021-10566-4.
Khomo, M., Naicker, N., Chisita, C., & Rajkoomar, M. (2023). Factors contributing to the successful development and use of mobile digital libraries: a systematic literature review. Digital Library Perspectives, 39(3), 353-370. https://doi.org/10.1108/dlp-08-2022-0062.
Krause, K. L., & Coates, H. (2008). Students’ engagement in first‐year university. Assessment & Evaluation in Higher Education, 33(5), 493-505.
Landa, N., Zhou, S., & Marongwe, N. (2021). Education in emergencies: lessons from covid-19 in south africa. International Review of Education, 67(1-2), 167-183. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11159-021-09903-z.
Çevik, A., Metin, M., & Kaya, H. (2022). A Bibliographic Perspective of Flipped Classroom Studies in Science Education. International Journal of Technology in Education and Science, 6(2), 286-305.
Lin, F. L., Wang, T. Y., & Yang, K. L. (2018). Description and evaluation of a large-scale project to facilitate student engagement in learning mathematics. Studies in Educational Evaluation, 58, 178-186.
Manase, N. (2021). Disguised blessings amid covid 19: opportunities and challenges for south african university students with learning disabilities. Journal of Student Affairs in Africa, 9(1), 107-118. https://doi.org/10.24085/jsaa.v9i1.1431.
Maphalala, M. C., & Ajani, O. A. (2023). The covid-19 pandemic: shifting from conventional classroom learning to online learning in South Africa’s higher education. International Journal of Innovative Technologies in Social Science, (2 (38)).
Maphalala, M., Khumalo, N., & Khumalo, P. (2021). Student teachers’ experiences of the emergency transition to online learning during the covid-19 lockdown at a south african university. Perspectives in Education, 39(3). https://doi.org/10.18820/2519593x/pie.v39.i3.4.
Martin, F. & Bolliger, D. (2018). Engagement matters: student perceptions on the importance of engagement strategies in the online learning environment. Online Learning, 22(1). https://doi.org/10.24059/olj.v22i1.1092.
Mashau, P. & Nyawo, J. (2021). The use of an online learning platform: a step towards e-learning. South African Journal of Higher Education, 35(2). https://doi.org/10.20853/35-2-3985.
Mayombe, C. (2023). Facilitating non-school-based technical and vocational training for disadvantaged youths in south africa. Journal of Technical Education and Training, 15(1). https://doi.org/10.30880/jtet.2023.15.01.016.
Mhlanga, D. & Moloi, T. (2020). Covid-19 and the digital transformation of education: what are we learning on 4IR in South Africa? Education Sciences, 10 (7), 180. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci10070180.
Moon, M. Y. (2023). Effects of Online Class Satisfaction, Professor-Student Interaction, and Learning Motivation on Self-Directed Learning Ability of Nursing Students Applying the Blended Learning. Journal for ReAttach Therapy and Developmental Diversities, 6(1s), 19–29. https://doi.org/10.52783/jrtdd.v6i1s.212.
Msimanga, M., Mabalane, V., Ramaila, S., & Ramdhany, V. (2021). Postgraduate certificate in education student teachers’ perceptions about communities of practice at schools: work integrated learning reflections. International Journal of Higher Education, 10(5), 155. https://doi.org/10.5430/ijhe.v10n5p155.
Namli, N. & Aybek, B. (2022). An investigation of the effect of block-based programming and unplugged coding activities on fifth graders’ computational thinking skills, self-efficacy and academic performance. Contemporary Educational Technology, 14(1), ep341. https://doi.org/10.30935/cedtech/11477.
National Survey of Student Engagement [NSSE}. (2010). National Survey of Student Engagement: About NSSE. Retrieved August 12, 2023 from http://nsse.iub.edu/.
Nawagi, F. & Raman, A. (2023). The importance of in-country african instructors in international experiential training programs; a qualitative case study from the university of minnesota. BMC Medical Education, 23(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-023-04129-z.
Nel, M., Hay, J., Bekker, T., Beyers, C., Pylman, N., Alexander, G., … & Matoti, S. (2023). Exploring the perceptions of lecturers and final year students about the infusion of inclusion in initial teacher education programmes in south africa. Frontiers in Education, 8. https://doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2023.1024054.
Nguyen, P., Van, T., & Dong, T. (2023). Influences of students’ self-directed learning on their grades in english as a foreign language subject at the university of social science and humanities vietnam national university ho chi minh city. International Journal of Arts Humanities & Social Science, 04(04), 34-39. https://doi.org/10.56734/ijahss.v4n4a4.
Nwosu, L., Bereng, M., Segotso, T., & Enebe, N. (2023). Fourth industrial revolution tools to enhance the growth and development of teaching and learning in higher education institutions: a systematic literature review in south africa. Research in Social Sciences and Technology, 8(1), 51-62. https://doi.org/10.46303/10.46303/ressat.2023.4.
Olawumi, K. & Mavuso, M. (2022). Education in the new normal: a need for alternative strategies in supporting teaching and learning in south african schools in the post-covid-19 era. E-Journal of Humanities Arts and Social Sciences, 116-125. https://doi.org/10.38159/ehass.2022sp31110.
Pillay, I. (2021). The impact of inequality and covid-19 on education and career planning for south african children of rural and low-socioeconomic backgrounds. African Journal of Career Development, 3(1). https://doi.org/10.4102/ajcd.v3i1.36.
Raducu, C. and Stănculescu, E. (2021). Adaptability to online teaching during covid-19 pandemic: a multiple mediation analysis based on kolb’s theory. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(15), 8032. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18158032.
Redmond, P., Axelsen, M., Maloney, S., Turner, J., Brown, A., Basson, M., … & Henderson, R. (2023). Student perceptions of online engagement. Online Learning, 27(1). https://doi.org/10.24059/olj.v27i1.3320.
Reschly, A. L., Huebner, E. S., Appleton, J. J., & Antaramian, S. (2008). Engagement as flourishing: The contribution of positive emotions and coping to adolescents' engagement at school and with learning. Psychology in the Schools, 45(5), 419-431.
Sanfriska, E. and Hastuti, R. (2022). Qualitative of college student engagement during online learning for Indonesian students. Open Journal for Psychological Research, 6(1), 7-16. https://doi.org/10.32591/coas.ojpr.0601.02007s.
Shannon, C. and Clarke, D. (2022). How teacher presence engages and supports online female postgraduate students at an Australian regional university. Ascilite Publications, e22098. https://doi.org/10.14742/apubs.2022.98.
Shin, Y., Miller-Day, M., Hecht, M., & Krieger, J. (2017). Entertainment–education videos as a persuasive tool in the substance use prevention intervention “keepin’ it real”. Health Communication, 33(7), 896-906. https://doi.org/10.1080/10410236.2017.1321163.
Sokhulu, L. (2020). Students’ experiences of using digital technologies to address their personal research needs during the covid-19 lockdown. African Identities, 19(4), 436-452. https://doi.org/10.1080/14725843.2020.1801384.
Soler, M., Morlà-Folch, T., García-Carrión, R., & Valls, R. (2019). Transforming rural education in Colombia through family participation: The case of school as a learning community. JSSE-Journal of Social Science Education, 18(4), 67-80.
Suyati, E. S., & Rozikin, A. Z. (2021). The Influence of Motivation and Self-Efficacy Towards The Students’ Entrepreneurship Interest in Muhammadiyah University of Palangkaraya. Jurnal Economia, 17(1), 91-100.
Swanson, R. A. (2013). Theory building in applied disciplines. San Francisco, CA: Berrett-Koehler.
Tan, S. (2023.) Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Innovation in Education. In Learning Intelligence: Innovative and Digital Transformative Learning Strategies; Springer: Singapore.
Trowler, Vicki. (2010). Student Engagement Literature Review. York, England: The Higher.
Tsamago, H. and Bayaga, A. (2023). Self-organized learning environments (soles) pedagogy as a conduit to learners’ metacognitive skills and conceptual understanding of “s” in stem: the south african study. European Journal of Science and Mathematics Education, 11(3), 533-555. https://doi.org/10.30935/scimath/13038.
Venturino, M. and Hsu, Y. (2022). Using whatsapp to enhance international distance education at the university of south africa. Techtrends, 66(3), 401-404. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11528-022-00718-9.
Wang, T. and Wen, J. (2023). Experiential teaching is more conducive to student learning than traditional teaching. Journal of Education and Culture Studies, 7(1), p100. https://doi.org/10.22158/jecs.v7n1p100.
Woldegiorgis, E. (2022). Mitigating the digital divide in the south african higher education system in the face of the covid-19 pandemic. Perspectives in Education, 40(3). https://doi.org/10.18820/2519593x/pie.v40.i3.13.
Xulu-Gama, N. and Hadebe, S. (2022). Language of instruction: a critical aspect of epistemological access to higher education in south africa. South African Journal of Higher Education, 36(5). https://doi.org/10.20853/36-5-4788.
Yan, H., Zhang, H., & Lam, J. F. I. (2022). A Qualitative Study on the Model of Factors Influencing Online Interactivity and Student Learning Engagement in the Post-Pandemic Era. Journal of Higher Education Theory and Practice, 22(17). https://doi.org/10.33423/jhetp.v22i17.5657.
Yang, D., Tang, Y., Hayashi, R., Ra, S., & Lim, C. (2022). Supporting inclusive online higher education in developing countries: lessons learnt from Sri Lanka’s university closure. Education Sciences, 12(7), 494. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci12070494.
Zhoc, K., Cai, Y., Yeung, S., & Shan, J. (2022). Subjective wellbeing and emotion regulation strategies: how are they associated with student engagement in online learning during covid‐19? British Journal of Educational Psychology, 92(4), 1537-1549. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjep.12513.
Veröffentlicht
2023-11-08
Zitationsvorschlag
Khoalenyane, N., & Ayodele Ajani, O. (2023). Exploring Student Perceptions of Engagement in Online Learning within Higher Education Institutions: A Comprehensive Systematic Review. International Journal of Social Science Research and Review, 6(11), 62-81. https://doi.org/10.47814/ijssrr.v6i11.1740