Using Mixed Methods to Understand Teaching and Learning in COVID 19 Times

Daniela Popa, Angela Repanovici, Daciana Lupu, Mariana Norel and Claudiu Coman
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Daniela Popa: Psychology, Education and Teacher Training Department, Transilvania University of Brasov, Bulevardul Eroilor 29, 500036 Brasov, Romania
Angela Repanovici: Product Design and Environment Department, Transilvania University of Brasov, B-dul Eroilor 29, 500036 Brasov, Romania
Daciana Lupu: Psychology, Education and Teacher Training Department, Transilvania University of Brasov, Bulevardul Eroilor 29, 500036 Brasov, Romania
Mariana Norel: Psychology, Education and Teacher Training Department, Transilvania University of Brasov, Bulevardul Eroilor 29, 500036 Brasov, Romania
Claudiu Coman: Social and Communication Sciences Department, Transilvania University of Brasov, B-dul Eroilor 29, 500036 Brasov, Romania

Sustainability, 2020, vol. 12, issue 20, 1-20

Abstract: This research focuses on teaching–learning behavior in the online environment under crisis conditions, such as those caused by COVID-19. Data were collected from 427 participants from Central and Eastern Europe and North and Central Asia. An integrative mixed method design was used, combining components of both qualitative and quantitative research. The research method used was the inquiry based on a semi-structured questionnaire, which combined closed items with open-ended and semi-structured interviews. The quantitative results revealed significant differences between professors and students regarding the self-reported adaptability level, creativity, need for help in online teaching–learning, and collaboration with colleagues for solving problems in the online teaching–learning medium. The opinions of professors do not differ from those of students regarding the advantages, disadvantages, vulnerable areas, and aspects of online education. Thematic analysis, used to analyze the qualitative data, emphasized the participants’ perceptions of online teaching–learning efficiency in crises. Based on the results, it was concluded that the aspects that need to become a priority in online education concern mainly the didactic quality of the learning experience.

Keywords: online learning; mixed methods design; digital competencies; personality traits; didactic skills (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (10)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:12:y:2020:i:20:p:8726-:d:432269

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