The Challenges and Opportunities of Online Learning for Political Science Students and Instructors in Nigeria

Abstract

Online learning has become a popular mode of education delivery in many countries, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, online learning also poses some challenges and opportunities for political science students and instructors in Nigeria. This paper aims to examine the current state of online learning in political science in Nigeria, identify the main challenges and opportunities, and suggest some recommendations for improvement. The paper adopts related literature, journals, text and articles as source of data. The paper finds that online learning in political science in Nigeria is still at a nascent stage, with limited access, quality, and diversity of courses and resources. The paper also identifies some of the challenges faced by political science students and instructors in online learning, such as inadequate infrastructure, low digital literacy, lack of interaction and feedback, and academic integrity issues. On the other hand, the paper highlights some of the opportunities offered by online learning for political science students in Nigeria, such as flexibility, convenience, cost-effectiveness, and exposure to global perspectives and best practices. The paper concludes by offering some suggestions for enhancing online learning in political science in Nigeria, such as improving infrastructure and connectivity, developing digital skills and competencies, increasing collaboration and engagement, and ensuring quality assurance and accreditation

Keywords

Online learning, challenges, opportunities, political science and students