An e-learning infrastructural model for Kenya's higher education sector

Abstract

The problems that plague the higher education sector in Kenya have become a major talking point in the news media, academic forums and even in social forums. The fact that the country is unable to cope with the increasing demand for university education is a reality that requires an elaborate and effective solution. It is on this premise that this research work was undertaken. The main objective of this study was to explore the socio-economic and education related problems that qualified students face while seeking university education in Kenya and to assess whether and how e-learning could mitigate those problems. The research adopted qualitative and applied research methodologies in fulfilling the research objectives. The research methods included questionnaires, interviews and written texts and documents. The target group of the first two methods was the post Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) students who have qualified for admission to universities to undertake degree courses but have not secured any places. The research assessed the adoption of e-learning in various countries as well as the infrastructural components that would be required to implement a proper e-leaming platform. Data was gathered to assess the level of access by the post-KC SE students to certain infrastructural components such as the Internet and computers. Based on the findings of the research, an e-learning infrastructural model was developed that would best serve the higher education sector in Kenya. The research recommends that universities adopt the proposed infrastructural model of e-learning to widen the level of access to university education in the country.