E-Learning of STEM in Malaysian Higher Education Institutions: Status and challenges

Abstract

The 4th Industrial Revolution and COVID-19 pandemic have globally impacted the economy, livelihood and organizations. With digitalization, many programs including STEM-based courses that require hands-on approach have gone online. This research was carried out to analyze the status of STEM Education in Malaysian higher education institutions and to explore challenges of e-learning integration with STEM subjects. A concurrent triangulation mixed-methods design was employed whereby quantitative and qualitative approaches took place simultaneously. The qualitative data were gathered via questionnaire while qualitative approach used semi-structured interviews. Respondents were STEM educators who teach and/or manage STEM programs in HEIs within the Klang Valley. Junior lecturers are found comparatively better using different software programs, exploring websites and handling multimedia tools for e-learning purposes. 83% survey respondents claimed their institution has no STEM e-learning policy, contributing to further challenge in STEM Education development. Respondents agreed sound e-learning implementation of STEM requires lecturers with subject specialization, able to approach application of knowledge, skills and values to problem solving, can collaborate with others and adept at integrating technology. Meanwhile, the HEIs must engage stakeholders to counter resistance plan to change, and to measure the effectiveness of integrating e-learning in meeting the strategic goals in STEM education.