E-learning for Students With Disabilities During COVID-19: Faculty Attitude and Perception

Abstract

Faculty at the special education department of the University held mixed concerns about e-learning opportunities for Students with Disabilities (SWD) during the COVID-19 pandemic. This research investigated their attitude using a questionnaire survey. The sample was 70 faculty members who specialized in tutoring students with disabilities. The Pearson regression (0.655) established the reliability of the data collection instrument. The results showed that faculty members held a positive attitude toward the application of e-learning technologies for SWD and supported its ability to allow for cognitive, social, and education interaction during the pandemic. While faculty agreed the method was no more time-consuming than regular classroom sessions, they were reluctant to invest the time in training. The research concluded the views of department members in the design of appropriate systems/curricula would help to eliminate barriers and encourage more support for e-learning of SWDs during the pandemic. The faculty had several recommendations for the successful application of online learning during the pandemic for special needs students. Most suggested the need for adequate educational resources within the departments, and appropriate software and hardware to enable teaching appropriate skills to the learners with disabilities. There was a further recommendation that e-learning should be incorporated into the curricular programs.