Problems Experienced by Undergraduate Students in Conducting Research in Online Distance Learning

Abstract

The objective of this study was to analyze challenges faced by undergraduate students while conducting their research work in online distance learning environment. This study employed descriptive research design and was based on quantitative approach. The sample size of 400 students were selected through multistage sampling methods involving cluster and simple random sampling technique. Questionnaire was modified to obtain data which was five-point Likert scale. After the questionnaire was modified, it was pilot tested from a number of respondents in order to examine the reliability of the instrument. To condense the data, descriptive statistics such as mean, frequency, and standard deviation were used. The data were processed using the Statistics Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The result indicated a number of significant difficulties encountered by undergraduate students in distance learning environment. These were challenges with time management, motivation and availability of research resources. The students also faced challenges with understanding methodologies and getting timely supervisory support. Institutional factors like limited access to electronic libraries and poor academic support also slowed progress. In total, all these aspects had a negative effect on students` capacity to carry out effective research. According to the discovery the recommendations are institutions ought to formulate ways of increasing student motivation and participation in online learning, for instance, interactive learning and peer support groups. Digital libraries and other resources for research must be made available to support students in conducting quality research.