Fijian Students’ Reactions to Required Fully Online Courses during Covid-19

Abstract

The recent outbreak of the global pandemic COVID-19 required Fiji National University offer fully online courses, which is a new form of pedagogy for many students. This new form of learning benefitted many students but created obstacles for others. The purpose of this study was to investigate student perceptions of the advantages and disadvantages of fully online courses due to the COVID-19 pandemic. An online survey in the form of a semi-structured questionnaire was used to gather data from 138 students. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. The study found that fully online learning suits students during pandemics, natural disasters (flooding, cyclones), and political upheavals. Fully online learning also helps students who have permanent employment and have difficulty getting time off to attend face-to-face classes. It also helps maritime or remote students who have limited access to the main centre or helps lecturer/facilitator deliver instructions when he/she is out of a country or is far away. The study also confirmed that fully online learning requires robust internet connectivity and a sustainable power supply allowing students to assess course materials from the comfort of their homes at their own pace. The student's safety in terms of travel and transmission of diseases are maintained. Fully online learning classes also assist students in saving fuel costs and rushing to the classes.