Post Covid-19 adaptations: understanding postgraduate students’ perceptions of the effectiveness of blended learning at the University of KwaZulu Natal (Pietermaritzburg campus).

Abstract

The global access to information, coupled with progressions in Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) have contributed greatly to the widespread growth of blended learning (BL) in universities, as such, this study hopes to explore the challenges, experiences, and perceived effectiveness of blended learning among registered postgraduate students at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Pietermaritzburg campus. One-on-one semi-structured interviews were employed to collect data from participants. The advantages and shortcomings of blended learning were identified, and the impact of ICTs and pedagogical strategies on students' learning experiences and achievements were examined. Results obtained from this study add to the understanding of nuanced perceptions of postgraduate students towards using blended learning methods in teaching and learning. Insights from their reported perceptions provided the University with information that could assist in adjusting the blended learning approach. Lastly, recommendations have been presented to improve the efficacy of blended learning at the University of KwaZulu Natal and ensure that it meets the needs of postgraduate students post-COVID-19.