EXPLORING STUDENTS’ VIEWS ON DETERMINANTS OF ACADEMIC SUCCESS OF E-LEARNERS IN A NIGERIAN UNIVERSITY

<doi>10.24250/jpe/2/2024/OSA/DWG/</doi>

Abstract

The Nigerian educational system is today beset by numerous
problems. None of these is more genuine and tenacious than
students’ poor academic performance across all educational
levels. This is one of the greatest drawbacks to educational
advancement. The purpose of this paper was to explore students’
views on factors influencing academic performance of elearners.
The population consisted of all students from second
year to fourth year of the National Open University, South West
geo-political zone. The respondents were asked to express their
views on factors perceived to influence their academic
performance. The study employed a qualitative study design as
a means of carrying out the research. The sample of the study
was made up of 48 respondents from the University which were
selected using purposive sampling technique. Data were
collected through focus group interviews, the interviews were
audiotaped and transcribed, and data was analyzed through
thematic analysis. The results of this study revealed factors such
as computer reliance and knowledge, benefit of Internet, prior
ICT experience, collaborative learning, parent influence – ICT
literacy, self-efficacy and motivation and progressive use of
computer and benefits as factors perceived by the students to
influence their academic performance. Based on the findings of
this study, it was recommended that distance e-learners should
be encouraged to register for ICT training before being admitted
into higher institutions. It was also recommended that the
management of the university should give open access to the
Internet and e-mail in the university by establishing ICT learning
resource centres that give room for students to access relevant
software, applications and technology of any form.