Addressing the Role of Technology in International Online Education: Voices of Students From Ghana (Poster 10)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Saturday 8:00 a.m.
  In Poster Session: Online Teaching and Learning SIG Poster Session II

Abstract

International online education is growing in alignment with the global expansion of digital infrastructure. This trend involves students from underdeveloped countries enrolling in online programs offered by developed countries, raising concerns about sociotechnical differences between educational providers and students. This study examines the experiences of 28 Ghanaian students enrolled in online graduate programs provided by U.S. and U.K. institutions. Utilizing the Internationalisation at a Distance framework, the research highlights how the use of digital technologies arranged by U.S. and U. K institutional both support and undermine learning process and digital skill acquisition in the context of the digital divide. The study calls for a critical re-examination of sociotechnical assumptions by educational institutions to support equitable access in international online education.

Authors

• Alex Kumi-Yeboah, University at Albany - SUNY

• YangHyun Kim, City University of New York

• Zacharia Mohammed, University at Albany - SUNY

• Samuel Amponsah, University of Ghana