Challenges of Distance Learning Adoption by Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic

This research examines the challenges encountered by Tunisian higher education students during the sudden shift to distance learning amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in 2020. A qualitative research is conducted to collect and analyze data. The findings highlight that a majority of the interviewed students have reservations about distance learning. Lack of internet facilities, inaccessibility of technological infrastructure, costs, lack of interaction with instructors, of motivation, as well as of understanding were among the major reported challenges. Moreover, results have shown that shifting to distance learning under the COVID-19 pandemic is perceived to be incongruent with the values of equity, equality of chances, and gratuity of education. These values are defended by all stakeholders in the education process. Due to above-mentioned challenges and solidarity values between students, distance learning was negatively perceived. These findings improve understanding regarding the challenges of distance learning particularly under crisis.