The Economic Impact of covid-19 on Distance Students in Ghana; A case of University of Education – Institute of Distance Education and eLearning

Proceedings of ‏The 3rd International Conference on Advanced Research in Education

Year: 2021

DOI: https://www.doi.org/10.33422/3rd.educationconf.2021.03.224

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The Economic Impact of covid-19 on Distance Students in Ghana; A case of University of Education – Institute of Distance Education and eLearning

Francis Owusu Mensah (PhD), Joseph Antwi Baafi (PhD)2, Eric Effah Sarkodie

ABSTRACT: 

This study sought to investigate the impact of covid-19 on distance students in Ghana. The study employed the qualitative methodology which was a major departure from previous studies.  The study used a sample size of 16 students made up of 8 males and 8 females and conducted an online interview (to allow for social distancing) section for 20 minutes. The method of triangulation to check the credibility and validity of research findings was employed. The study found that covid-19 has brought about additional expenses including but not limited to the purchase of internet connectivity phones, purchase of laptops, repairs of laptop, purchase of additional data, purchase of modems and routers, purchases of additional phone credit for conference calls and subject discussion with colleague and home learning environment on students. Again, the study found that covid-19 has brought about increased living expenses cost and unplanned budget spending which has affected their academics negatively.  The study recommends that school authorities should consider softer methods in fees collection and should grant fees rebate to deserving students.

Keywords: Covid-19, Economic Impact, Distance Students.