Students' Usage of Google Classroom as LMS during Covid-19

Abstract

Both developed and developing nations have adopted online education in response to the difficulties posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. Learning Management Systems (LMS) have gained rapid popularity as a widely utilized method for teaching and learning in the blended learning environment of universities. In the context of Open and Distance Learning (ODL), Google Classroom has often been used as a substitute for LMS, either due to the constraints of traditional LMSs or the absence of any existing LMSs. This study investigates the students' reactions to the utilization of Google Classroom as a LMS during the Covid-19 pandemic, when traditional in- person instruction was suspended in universities in Bangladesh. The study employed various techniques to gather responses from the students. A mixed-methods approach was employed, incorporating both survey questionnaires and in-depth interviews to gather quantitative and qualitative data. A total of 152 pupils completed the survey, and five learners participated in interviews. The findings of the study revealed that majority of the students responded positively on the usage of Google Classroom as LMS. However, several problems were observed such as the need for formalization and concerns over privacy and safety. The study recommends that the respective university authority should provide constant monitoring, timely feedback, and regular updates. Moreover, having clear policy guidelines, online surveillance measures, and active facilitation role of teachers are essential for the effective use of Google Classroom in ODL settings.