Abstract
This qualitative study aimed to evaluate the experiences and main obstacles
faced by undergraduate students at the National Open University of Nigeria
(NOUN) in the current online learning environment. Unstructured in-depth
interviews were conducted to gather information from a selected sample of
undergraduate students at NOUN. To overcome language barriers and
encourage open communication, questions were asked in both Yoruba and
English, and responses were accurately recorded in English. The transcription
process involved preserving and compiling the recorded audio, while feedback
from face-to-face interviews was collected using the "Rev voice recorder" app,
which facilitated the direct ordering of interview transcripts. Thematic content
analysis was utilized to analyze the responses and address the research
questions. The results of the study indicated that despite the numerous benefits,
NOUN undergraduate students still have negative views towards online
education, which could affect the sustainability of the school. In addition to this,
students face challenges such as inadequate power supply, poor internet
connectivity, costly ICT resources, insufficient staffing, and low staff
motivation in the online learning environment. The study’s recommendations
for improving the NOUN programme included providing students with access
to the university’s internet, ensuring good electrification, offering financial
assistance for ICT equipment, increasing staff numbers, and providing training
or retraining opportunities for current staff members. This study contributes to
existing knowledge by highlighting the challenges faced by undergraduate
NOUN students in online learning, underscoring potential implications for the
institution’s future.