An Empirical Qualitative Study on the Punjab ESL University Students in Adoption of Emerging Technologies and the Challenges of ODL Environment

Abstract

The aim of this qualitative study is to explore the adoption of technology and the challenges of the ODL environment. Whereas the post-pandemic era has given rise to online learning. However, despite the importance of online learning ODL adoption and challenges remain unpacked. The challenges among ESL university students are more compared to other developed countries, as Pakistan is an underdeveloped country whereas the ODL issues are more significant. This study has focused on the ESL students and the data gathered insights regarding their overall views of ODL from the semi-structured interviews with undergraduate students. Thus, the investigation focused on the real time challenges of ESL students and their experiences in the adoption of technology and the challenges of the ODL environment as well as their experiences and perceptions connected to the emerging technologies in the use of the ODL environment. The results revealed that the students faced challenges such as power shutdown, unaffordable internet packages, infrastructure, a lack of technology acceptance, a lack of innovation and traditional pedagogical methods and network issues. Most of the ESL students observed that ODL was challenging for them since they had a great deal of interruptions at home, which impacted their concentration, and comprehension of the lessons as well. Therefore, the study concluded that the ESL students are partially ready for ODL, and that more time is needed to adapt to the emerging technologies which require compassion, inspiration, and a great deal of effort.