Quantitative Analysis of the Evolving Student Experience During the Transition to On-Line Learning: Second-Language STEM Students

Abstract

The National University of Science Technology is an English-language institution in the Middle East offering degrees in Medicine. Pharmacy and Engineering. We present the results of our studies of the evolving student learning experience during COVID-19 lockdown restrictions. There was a discernible preference for synchronous, interactive learning. Mobile technology was more frequently used by our students than larger form factors. Platforms such as WhatsApp delivered much greater student engagement than our existing Learning Management System. Students learned at a slower rate using online material than we had anticipated with implications for assessment and progression.