An Investigation into Learners' Satisfaction in an Online Learning Environment

Abstract

The study aimed to ascertain if learners are satisfied with the school online program at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria. The university is a dual-mode institution, combining distance education with the conventional face-to-face delivery model. The Centre for Distance Learning (CDL) is a unit in the university with a mandate to provide open and flexible education available “anywhere anytime beyond borders”. This study examined the level of satisfaction of 200 and 300 levels of online nursing students, on the indices of online presence, factors considered critical to success, learning materials, and learning activities. A survey-based data collection procedure was employed, using an adapted questionnaire to gather relevant information. The indicators for level of satisfaction are categorized as highly satisfied, moderately satisfied, and not satisfied. The data obtained were coded and analyzed with the SPSS software with frequency distribution, percentage distribution and mean statistics applied for analysis. In this study, the lowest mean value indicated the most preferred and highly satisfying e-learning program. The frequency and percentage distribution of each of the e-learning programs were also examined across different student levels. A proportional data analysis using frequency and percentage distribution technique was employed to compare the level of satisfaction of each component of e-learning programs across different program levels among learners. The results showed learners were satisfied with the open and distance learning program (x̅ = 2.046). The breakdown of all the variables investigated online presence and online community (x̅ = 2.174); factors for online success (x̅ = 1.89); learning materials (x̅ = 1.798); frequency of learning activities (x̅ = 1.963) shows the degree of satisfaction across the variables. However, the aspect of prompt feedback shows disapproval ratings among the respondents. In conclusion, the study shows the aspects of the program where the learners are highly satisfied, moderately satisfied and not satisfied at all. This provides information for further programme development especially in the aspect of prompt feedback where learners were dissatisfied.