Elearning

Implementation of e-Learning in Ghanaian Tertiary Institutions (A Case Study of KNUST)
John Serbe Marfo University Information Technology Services Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Kumasi, Ghana [e-mail] Robert Kabutey Okine University Information Technology Services Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Kumasi, Ghana [e-mail]

Abstract This study explores the implementation of e-learning in Ghanaian tertiary institutions with KNUST as a case study. The objectives of the study examined the advantages and disadvantages of e-learning to KNUST, the various types of e-learning systems considered by KNUST, the ‘Moodle’ E-learning system adopted by KNUST, the strategies involved in the e-learning system, the challenges faced by KNUST in the implementation of its elearning system along with possible solutions and finally a recommendation on critical issues to be considered for the effective implementation of the e-learning system. A descriptive study with a cross-sectional design was done. For tertiary institutions in Ghana, recommendations were made for them to adopt e-learning to augment and highly impact teaching and learning given the ever-increasing enrolment figures. It was also recommended that they chose an e-learning system which blends open source system and course management system such as Moodle due to cost, features, specifications, support and mode of course management
1. Introduction

E-learning (or online education as it is still commonly termed) has been variously defined, but can be simply described as a learning process in which learners can communicate with their instructors and their peers, and access learning materials, over the internet or other computer networks (Curran, 2004). It therefore provides a means through which the powerful and pervasive computing and communications technologies can be applied to tertiary education – and to some of the key challenges now

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