Readiness for Online Learning among Students Amidst COVID-19: A Case of a Selected HEI in Sri Lanka

With the emergence of coronavirus, online learning has become the promising solution for the tertiary educational institutes which are currently in an environment of intense change. Considering students’ readiness for online learning under this situation is important to continue education without interruption and for the success of students especially in tertiary education. One of the aspects of online learning readiness is technological readiness. Hence present survey investigated the technological factors, ICT skills, and competencies influencing readiness in online learning and challenges faced during online learning among diploma students at the selected HEI in Sri Lanka. A self-administrated online questionnaire (Google Form) was distributed among Accountancy and Business Finance diploma students in the selected institute during the period of closure. Results show that respondents rely heavily on smartphones (62.4%) and mobile data to connect internet (74.4%). The results revealed that the respondents are familiar and experienced with the required ICT such as basic and advanced computer skills, using online tools, and online communication. However, the students’ overall readiness for online learning is moderate. The biggest challenges for the students are a poor internet connection, high cost for data, and limited broadband data. It can be concluded that students are well equipped in using technology in formal environments and are ready to use these technologies to support and continue their learning.