Online Learning and Quality Education Delivery in Tertiary Institutions in Anambra State, Nigeria

Purpose: This research evaluated the impact of online learning on the quality of education delivered in tertiary institutions in Anambra State, Nigeria. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study utilised a correlational survey design, and the data were collected in June 2024 from students, educators, and researchers using a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire was integrated into the Google survey, and its circulation was performed through social networks and personal contacts to ensure a diverse sample. Inter-item reliability was established to be 0. 76. The level of data normality was determined by applying the Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Shapiro-Wilk tests. Additional analysis included the mean, standard deviation, skewness, kurtosis, and Kendall’s taub correlation coefficients to compare these variables. Research Limitations: The study is based on the participants’ accounts and has a regional perspective, which can restrict the generalisation of the research results. Possible areas to explore include extending the study to other places or using data collected over time to comprehend the long-term consequences of online learning. Findings: Descriptive analysis shows that respondents have a mostly positive attitude towards online learning platforms, recognising their role in widening access to educational materials and providing flexibility and independence. The association between educational background and quality of education delivery is negligible and insignificant (τ = -0. 029, p = 0. 623). There is a modest but significant negative relationship between gender and quality of education delivery (τ = -0. 129, p = 0. 041). A positive and significant correlation exists between online learning and quality of education delivery (τ = 0. 186, p = 0. 003), indicating a moderate positive impact. Practical Implication: The study recommends continued investment in online learning infrastructure, the development of tailored online learning approaches for higher education and further research to address the negative perceptions of online learning among individuals with higher educational backgrounds. Social Implication: The research corroborates the importance of online learning in the current education models, arguing that it can improve the quality of tertiary education and thus make university education more portable and capable of fitting the needs of individual students. Originality/Value: This research contributes to the literature on the benefits of online learning and emphasises the need to continue funding and developing necessary models and support to mitigate mixed perceptions related to the educational level and gender of the originator.