Students experiences and motivational factors on using e-learning systems in higher education institutions in Tanzania

Mustapha Almasi; Fred Yaredi Mgata; Haruni Machumu; Agripina Masashua

doi:10.55056/etq.866

Authors

Mustapha Almasi Mzumbe University https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7154-0854
Fred Yaredi Mgata Mzumbe University https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7112-1246
Haruni Machumu Mzumbe University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5743-8906
Agripina Masashua Mzumbe University https://orcid.org/0009-0000-0221-4449

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55056/etq.866

Keywords:

e-learning, e-learning system, motivational factors, higher education institution, Tanzania

Abstract

Using the e-learning system in teaching and learning is becoming normal in Tanzania's higher education. Higher education institutions (HEIs) strive to provide an appropriate environment for instructors and students to utilise the e-learning system effectively. This study explored the students' utilisation of the e-learning system and the motivational factors that influenced the utilisation. The study surveyed demographic differences in students' e-learning system utilisation among 730 undergraduate students who were randomly sampled from three campuses at a HEI in Tanzania. Data were analysed through descriptive statistics, independent t-tests and one-way ANOVA. The findings show that students were significantly motivated by an e-learning-supportive environment, lecturers' influences, and personal interests. Similarly, the e-learning system is highly utilised for uploading and downloading documents, but online learning activities could be more utilised. E-learning system utilisation was found to be average, and further measures should be taken to enhance the use of the e-learning system. Furthermore, the study found no significant difference in gender, though it was contrary to students in different years of study. With study years influencing the e-learning system utilisation, the study recommends intensive training on the use of the e-learning system in students' early years.

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