Online learning through the eyes of engineering students in the UAE

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted an unprecedented shift in educational paradigms, compelling learners worldwide to rapidly adapt to fully online modes of instruction. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), even though online teaching experimentations had existed prior to 2019, the transition to a fully remote learning modality happened abruptly, bringing up several challenges. This study specifically investigates the unique experiences of first- and second-year engineering students during this transformative period, examining their perspectives on online education, the methodologies employed, and the resulting academic outcomes. Engineering students face distinct challenges due to the hands-on, practical nature of their discipline, which often requires specialized software and laboratory work that are difficult to replicate in an online environment. A meticulous survey, addressing diverse facets of the learning experience, was administered to undergraduate engineering students. In contrast with what the researchers hypothesized and expected, engineering students showed a clear preference to online learning, mentioning comfort and flexibility as important elements, while acknowledging that maintaining focus while studying remotely was a challenge. The study sheds light on the integral role of technology, emotional support, and varying learning methodologies, revealing a complex landscape that demands tailored strategies for improved online education.