Assessment of Online Learning Readiness Among MBBS Students: A Correlational Study
Keywords:
Online Learning Readiness, Learner Control, Computer and Internet Self-efficacy, Motivation for Learning, Self-directed LearningAbstract
Background: During COVID-19 in Pakistan, regarding education, faculty and students faced numerous challenges such
as no faculty training program, lack of well-equipped IT departments, the engagement of online learners, low bandwidth issues and internet connectivity.
Objective: To evaluate online learning preparedness, focusing on self-directed learning, computer and internet self efficacy,
online communication self-efficacy, learner control, and motivation for learning. This study findings provide
critical insight especially concerning learner control and self-directed learning in context of online education.
Method: This study is a correlational study employing a convenient sampling technique to select 257 participants from
the MBBS student population of all professional years who were actively engaged in online education at Rashid Latif
Medical College during February to July 2023. The validated open access questionnaire for Online Learning Readiness
Scale (OLRS) was used. Moreover, to determine the relationship between learner control and self-directed learning as
well as between these two factors and motivation to learn, the Pearson correlational coefficient was utilized.
Results: Most students exhibited computer and internet self-efficacy (65.3%), self-directed learning (60.2%), and
motivation for learning (82.4%). Learner control positively correlated with self-directed learning (r=0.343**), as well
as self-directed learning with motivation for learning (r=0.339**).
Conclusion: Online learning readiness can be improved by increasing learner control and self-directed learning. For
effective online education to be possible even in emergency situations, policymakers and institutions should concentrate on
infrastructure, training, and support systems. Training should be focused on developing learner control and goal setting
for academic achievement.
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