Challenges of implementing e-learning in Kenya: A case of Kenyan public universities

  • John K. Tarus Moi University
  • David Gichoya Moi University
  • Alex Muumbo Technical University of Kenya
DOI: https://doi.org/10.19173/irrodl.v16i1.1816
Keywords: e-learning, blended learning, online learning, ODL, challenges, higher education, Kenya

Abstract

In this paper, we discuss the challenges experienced by Kenyan public universities in implementation of e-learning and recommend possible solutions towards its successful implementation. In the last few years, most Kenyan public universities have adopted e-learning as a new approach to teaching and learning. However, the implementation challenges faced by these universities have continued to impact negatively on its effective utilization. This paper presents the findings from a survey of 148 staff of three Kenyan public universities who are currently using e-learning in blended mode approach. The purpose of this study was to investigate the challenges hindering the implementation of e-learning in Kenyan public universities. Data was collected through questionnaires, in-depth interviews and document analysis. The findings reveal that e-learning comes with some challenges that must be addressed by Kenyan public universities before successful implementation can be realized. However, the benefits and opportunities presented by e-learning far outweigh the challenges. The paper finally recommends some possible solutions that public universities could embrace towards successful implementation of e-learning.

Author Biographies

John K. Tarus, Moi University

Mr. John K. Tarus is currently a PhD student at Beijing Institute of Technology, China. He is a Database Administrator in the Directorate of ICT, Moi University, Kenya. He holds an M.Phil in Information Technology from Moi University, Kenya and B.Sc from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. His current research interests are in the areas of E-Learning, Recommender systems and Open Source Software. He is a member of Free Software and Open Source Foundation for Africa (FOSSFA).

David Gichoya, Moi University
Prof. David Gichoya (PhD) holds a PhD in Information and Computer Science (Loughborough University - UK), Msc in Computer Science and Application (Shanghai University – China), Bed (Kenyatta University - Kenya). He is an Associate Professor in the Department of Information Technology, School of Information Sciences in Moi University, Kenya. His current research interests are in the areas of Information systems, Artificial Intelligence and Application of Information Technology in organizations especially in government. He is currently the Head of Department of Information Technology, Moi University, Kenya.
Alex Muumbo, Technical University of Kenya
Prof. Alex Muumbo is an Associate Professor of Moi University, Department of Mechanical and Production Engineering. He holds a PhD in Materials Process Engineering-Simulation (Nagoya - Japan), Msc in Advanced Manufacturing Systems  Engineering and Management (Bradford - UK)  and B-Tech in Production Technology (Moi University - Kenya). His current research interests are in the areas of Information systems development, e-content development using open source solutions, Modeling and simulation. He is currently the Executive Dean, Faculty of Engineering Sciences and Technology, Technical University of Kenya.
Published
2015-01-20
How to Cite
Tarus, J. K., Gichoya, D., & Muumbo, A. (2015). Challenges of implementing e-learning in Kenya: A case of Kenyan public universities. The International Review of Research in Open and Distributed Learning, 16(1). https://doi.org/10.19173/irrodl.v16i1.1816
Issue
Vol. 16 No. 1 (2015)
Section
Research Articles

Copyright (c) 2015 John K. Tarus, David Gichoya, Alex Muumbo

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