EFL Postgraduate Students’ Perceptions, and their Practices of Online Instructions in the University of Gondar: A Qualitative Case Study

Abstract

This study was aimed to explore EFL postgraduate students’ perceptions, and their practices of online instructions at the Department of English Language and Literature in the University of Gondar. In order to attain this aim, a qualitative case study research design was employed. To collect data from EFL postgraduate students, semi-structured interview to eight postgraduate students and nine online observations were employed. The data were categorized thematically, they were analyzed accordingly. The results of the study indicated that although EFL postgraduate students had a positive perception of online teaching and learning platforms during COVID-19, they were unsure of its effectiveness. The findings also indicated that the practices of online instructions among EFL postgraduate students were not effective compared to face-to-face learning. The study concluded that EFL postgraduate students viewed online platforms positively, but they did not have positive perception towards its effectiveness. It was also concluded that EFL postgraduate students did not practice online instructions properly. As a result, University of Gondar should encourage EFL postgraduate students to use multiple virtual technology resources that are essential for online teaching and learning practices.