An Evaluation of how Technology Implementation impacted Student Learning in Third Level Education (Undergraduates and postgraduates) during the Covid-19 Pandemic

Akinbami, Deborah (2025) An Evaluation of how Technology Implementation impacted Student Learning in Third Level Education (Undergraduates and postgraduates) during the Covid-19 Pandemic. Undergraduate thesis, Dublin, National College of Ireland.

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Abstract

This study investigated the impact of technology implementation on student learning in third-level education during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on undergraduate and postgraduate students in Irish universities. The pandemic-induced shift to online education posed significant challenges and opportunities, raising questions about the quality, accessibility, and effectiveness of virtual learning platforms. The research problem addressed in this study centres on the need to evaluate how online technologies influenced educational outcomes, student engagement, and the usability of digital tools amidst emergency remote teaching. A descriptive quantitative survey was conducted with 77 students, schooling in third-level institutions in Ireland, employing a structured online Google Forms questionnaire to gather data their experiences with online learning. Frequency tables, bar charts, and comparative analysis were used to interpret the data, guided by four key objectives: perceived quality of education, student engagement, barriers to learning, and effectiveness of digital platforms and lecturer competence. The findings revealed that most students perceived technology as having a somewhat positive or very positive impact on learning quality. Engagement levels varied, with a majority participating frequently in online classes, though a significant minority reported low or no engagement. Key barriers included difficulty focusing at home, limited interaction with lecturers, and mental health stress. While digital platforms were generally deemed effective, limited training and disparities in lecturer competence influenced outcomes. This research contributes to the growing body of literature on digital education by providing student-centred insights into the successes and shortcomings of pandemic-era online learning. The study concludes that while online technologies supported continuity in education, future improvements require equitable access, effective training, and pedagogically driven digital integration.

Item Type:	Thesis (Undergraduate)
Supervisors:	Name Email MacDonald, Robert UNSPECIFIED
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Online learning; Digital tools; COVID-19 pandemic; Student engagement; Higher education; Technology implementation; Ireland
Subjects:	L Education > L Education (General) L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB2300 Higher Education T Technology > T Technology (General) R Medicine > Diseases > Outbreaks of disease > Epidemics > COVID-19 Pandemic, 2020-
Divisions:	School of Business (- 2025) > BA (Honours) in Business Studies
Depositing User:	Ciara O'Brien
Date Deposited:	19 Mar 2026 09:30
Last Modified:	19 Mar 2026 09:30
URI:	https://norma.ncirl.ie/id/eprint/9174

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