Abstract:
The COVID19 pandemic has motivated the education system to find
alternatives to the traditional teaching-learning methods. As a result, online
teaching and learning have been used on an unprecedented scale. The
objectives of this study were to examine the effectiveness of online learning
activities for Humanities and Social Sciences undergraduates in University
of Ruhuna and identify the challenges that lay ahead. Data from a
questionnaire given to all students in the 1000 and 2000 levels who came
from 19 districts were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods. The
research found that signal strength with the inadequate internet facilities,
bad weather conditions, and power cuts in the areas are affecting online
learning. 76% stay at home, and 16% stay outside to get a better internet
connection to their devices. Also, it was identified that 95.8% of them had
not taken any online classes earlier. Regarding internet usage, it was found
that 90% use mobile devices while 21% use computers and 80% use mobile
data connection, while 84% use prepaid connections. Moreover, it was
identified that students prefer a combination of traditional lectures and
online lectures. Also, they like live classes rather than the recorded lectures
because of the opportunity given to ask questions, getting to answer polls
and breakout room activities. However, online learning is faced with
challenges such as the equality and accessibility of technology, improved
performance, delivery value and affordability, literacy, and selfdiscipline
requirements. It is necessary to solve minimum social interaction,
adequate teacher training and motivation to improve sustainability.
