Learner Centered e-Interactions: An Exploration of Context and Practicality that Influences e-Learning Experience

摘要

Interactions are vital for any learning, be it in a classroom learning or e-learning. While e-learning is reaching its bloom in many parts of the world it is equally gaining popularity among African nations. The situation in Botswana is not different from other African nations. Many of the e-learning institutions are now claiming that they offer equal experience to both traditional learners and e-learners. In fact, different technologies are now in place that can create opportunities for these interactions and can enhance the whole e-learning experience. In e-learning, learner interactions are critical since the learners are physically separated from other learners and instructors. The study aimed to evaluate the experiences of interaction among learners from Botswana doing e-learning with various institutions within and outside the country and focused on four types of e-learner interactions such as learner - learner interaction, learner - instructor interaction, learner - content interaction and learner-interface interaction. The study used a mixed methods approach and purposive sampling that led to soliciting good responses from the actual participants of the study. Data was collected using interviews and questionnaire that was shared through Google Survey. This study was carried out among the e-learners from institutions of higher learning such as Botho University, Botswana Open University and Amity University. The outcomes of this study will assist to improve the overall quality of e-learning and will be significant to e-learners, instructors and the institutions who are offering e-learning modes of learning, especially in Africa.