Kibabii University Vice Chancellor Prof Ipara Odeo has revealed that the institution is planning to launch computer software that will help in administering examinations online.
In a meeting with members of the media, Prof Odeo revealed that e-learning has been utilized by many universities world-over in a bid to increase access to learning.
“Many universities are embracing online learning and all should do the same to enable students to study,” said Prof Odeo.
According to Odeo, online learning should be embraced by all universities so that it can help students achieve what is expected in their studies.
Odeo said that online teaching should be used to ensure learners can continue learning even if another global pandemic hits the world.
According to the VC, the availability of e-learning has made it easy to do research.
One of the shortcomings of many universities’ computer software for learning is the failure to simulate practicals.
Kibabii University will address this issue by creating software that can stimulate practicals.
“The university has 400 computers but we have plans to purchase more to serve the high number of students in the institution,” said Ode.
Odeo praised the Kenya Education Network Trust (KENET) for working with Safaricom to help provide laptops for students and the staff at a reduced price of around Kshs. 30,000 instead of the students having to pay up to Kshs. 60,000.
Besides, Odeo revealed that the crucial aspect of online learning is that students can still access the lecture hours later.
He also revealed that the adoption of online learning has saved the University with some students attending lessons in the comfort of their homes.
Bungoma County KUPPET Chairman David Barasa revealed that online learning is a good tool that enables timid learners the courage to ask their teachers questions that they could not ask during physical classes.
Barasa also added that in Bungoma County, most schools have already taken up online learning even though poor internet connectivity has hindered others from following suit.
He called on the incoming government to come up with ways of getting computers to schools to help in online learning.
Barasa also said the technology has improved security in schools as school administrators are now able to monitor all activities using CCTV cameras.