Students' Perception on Learning English through Distance Education: An Online Survey Conducted in Higher Education Institutes, Sri Lanka at the Time of COVID-19

Abstract

The importance of distance education became very significant in Sri Lanka with the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic specially among the students who are enrolled in compulsory English courses, diplomas, and intensive courses via distance education. Hence, the assessment of the students' perception of learning English via Distance learning is essential to enrich the education process. This online survey was conducted among 253 students who study compulsory English Language courses via distance learning education. A questionnaire composed of questions on demographic information, language usage, and a four-dimensional instrument on student perceptions of learning English through distance education was shared online for a period of two weeks to collect data. This instrument was composed of 18 items which were related to Personal suitability, Effectiveness, Teachability, and Study Habits. Descriptive statistics were analysed using SPSS 23.0. The mean (±SD) age of the participants was 21.29 (±1.37) years. The majority of the participants were females (75.5%, n=191), 92.9%. Moreover, most of them were at the undergraduate level (91.3%; n=231). Many of the participants had no previous experience with Distance Learning Education (73.9% n=187). The average of all the items on the four-dimensional instrument was at the level of 'Neutral' or 'Disagree'. It was noted that various teaching methods should be utilised in the process of online teaching to address the needs of every student in the classroom. It will enhance their level of motivation and make distance learning a promising experience. Further, empowering the students in completing online assessments and activities on time is also recommended.