Cultural Barriers and Gender Differences: A Qualitative Study of Issues Associated with Online Education in Pakistan

Abstract

COVID-19 has emerged as a disaster for people around the globe. Consequently, it has changed the way we live and do things in our everyday lives. This study analyzes the experiences of online education of university students during COVID-19 pandemic. It further explores the ways in which gender effects the online education of the students. The study was conducted in four conveniently selected universities of Lahore, Punjab. In-depths interviews were conducted with 16 research participants and data were analyzed by employing thematic analysis approach. The study found that students, particularly females, were facing loads of hurdles in attending online classes, including non-availability or frequent disconnection of internet, electricity load shading, lack of knowledge about using technology for online education, and time management. This study not only presents lived experiences of students but also suggests some constructive measures to address and curtail the challenges that are being faced by students during online education.