On the Road to Blended Learning post Covid-19 Era Settings: Students’ Perceptions at Women’s University in Africa

Dr. Mildred Shingirirai Nyamayedenga
Women’s University in Africa, Zimbabwe
Email: mildrednyamayedenga@gmail.com/ mnyamayedenga@wua.ac.zw

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to explore students’ perceptions on the use of blended learning during the post Covid-19 era. The study uses a qualitative approach, which is interpretive in nature. A case study of five purposively sampled undergraduate students at Women’s University in Africa was used. The study is hinged on a constructivist framework. Data from semi-structured interviews and documents were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Findings show that students had differing preferences in shifting from purely traditional methods of teaching to blended learning during the post Covid-19 era. Majority of students highlight positive experiences during online learning, and they would not mind mixing it with the traditional methods of learning in future. Students indicate that online learning assists them to interact and co-operate freely while the traditional methods of learning assist them in getting individual attention such as support from their lecturers while researching for assignments, as well as benefiting from library and information technology facilities on-campus. The study recommends that lecturers should sharpen their computer skills in chosen digital platform to conduct online and face to face lessons which is blended.