Strategies for Overcoming the Digital Divide During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Higher Education Institutions in Ghana

• In Event: Impact of Institutional Structures, Resources, and Support on Multicultural Educational Experiences

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to investigate the strategies universities in Ghana used to overcome the digital divide during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study also aimed to explore the challenges and experiences of dealing with the digital divide during the pandemic. Data were collected following a qualitative research design. Thirty-five in-depth and semi-structured interviews from two private and three public universities were obtained and analyzed via thematic analysis approach. Findings shows evidence of students’ access to affordable Internet bandwidth, adoption of remote education, using digital technologies for hybrid and remote courses, creation of ICT platforms for instructors and students, trainings on digital skills for instructors and students, and challenges of dealing with digital divide during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Authors

• Alex Kumi-Yeboah, University at Albany - SUNY

• YangHyun Kim, City University of New York

• Yaa Essah Armah, University at Albany - SUNY