E-LEARNING IN HIGHER EDUCATION: EFFECTIVENESS, ENGAGEMENT, AND CHALLENGES

Abstract

The rapid digital transformation of education has positioned online learning platforms as pivotal tools in modern pedagogy, offering flexibility, accessibility, and global reach. This research critically examines the effectiveness and challenges of these platforms, drawing insights from students’ experiences with tools such as Google Meet, Zoom, YouTube, and institutional LMS. Employing a mixed-method approach, the study integrates quantitative survey data with qualitative reflections to explore dimensions of learner engagement, accessibility, and instructional quality. Findings reveal that while online platforms significantly enhance access to educational resources and provide opportunities for self-paced learning, they also present persistent barriers including technical issues, digital inequities, and diminished interpersonal interaction. The study underscores the necessity of pedagogical innovation, infrastructural improvements, and blended learning models to ensure sustainable and equitable digital education. By highlighting both opportunities and constraints, the research contributes to ongoing discourse on optimizing online learning for diverse learners in an evolving educational landscape.